Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute Raises Awareness of Merkel Cell Cancer in the Wake of Jimmy Buffett’s Tragic Passing
September 07, 2023
Baton Rouge, Louisiana - Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute, a leading advocate for health and wellness, is raising awareness of Merkel Cell Cancer (MCC) in wake of musician and entertainer Jimmy Buffett’s passing. This unfortunate event serves as an opportunity to address the importance of early detection and prevention of this devastating disease.
Merkel Cell Cancer is a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer. It primarily develops on the skin in areas exposed to sunlight, such as the face, neck, and arms. Risk factors for developing Merkel Cell Cancer include older age (typically over 70), weakened immune system and significant exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.
"This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the aggressiveness of Merkel Cell Cancer” says Dr. John Lyons, surgical oncologist at Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute. “It also highlights the importance of early detection and proactive medical intervention. These measures are the best opportunity to confront this rare but formidable opponent head-on, increasing the chances of successful treatment and improved outcomes."
Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute aims to empower the community to take charge of their skin health. By promoting the following key messages, we hope to inspire positive change and reduce the impact of skin cancer:
- Protect Your Skin: It is vital to protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, seeking shade during peak hours, and wearing protective clothing, such as hats and sunglasses.
- Regular Skin Examinations: Early detection is crucial in treating skin cancer successfully. We encourage individuals to perform monthly self-examinations and seek professional skin checks annually.
- Educate and Advocate: Join Our Lady of the Lake in spreading awareness about skin cancer.
Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute urges the public to honor Jimmy Buffett’s memory by taking proactive steps toward preventing skin cancer. Together, we can make a difference and save lives.
Learn more about Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute at ololrmc.com/cancer.
About Our Lady of the Lake Health
Our Lady of the Lake Health is a not-for-profit Catholic healthcare ministry based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with more than 7,500 employees committed to serving the Capital Region and building a healthy community through excellence in patient care and education. With an 800-bed Regional Medical Center, a dedicated Children’s Hospital, a 78-bed hospital in Gonzales, Louisiana, two freestanding emergency rooms in outlying parishes, and a 600+ provider Physician Group, Our Lady of the Lake Health provides comprehensive healthcare services for common to complex conditions. Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center is a primary teaching site for graduate medical education programs in partnership with LSU, and is recognized in the areas of heart and vascular, trauma and emergency care, stroke, cancer care, minimally invasive procedures, and more. Our Lady of the Lake is part of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System and is driven by its mission to serve all God’s people, especially those most in need. For more information, visit ololrmc.com.