Nicolai Haugsted
The president has started treatment
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has started preventive radiation treatment following the discovery of early-stage skin cancer, according to doctors overseeing his care and officials from the presidential office.
Medical staff at Sirio-Libanes Hospital confirmed that Lula recently underwent surgery to remove a basal cell lesion from his scalp. Physicians later recommended additional treatment aimed at preventing further complications.
“It was decided to proceed with complementary treatment with preventive, superficial radiotherapy on the scalp,” doctors said in a medical statement.
Hospital representatives added that the 80-year-old president is expected to continue his regular schedule without restrictions during treatment.
Presidency Says Lesion Was Small
Officials from Brazil’s presidency told Reuters that the removed lesion was classified as an early-stage cancer.
Fifteen radiotherapy sessions have reportedly been planned as a precautionary measure intended to reduce the risk of new lesions developing.
Health concerns surrounding Lula have periodically drawn attention during his current term in office, particularly because he is the oldest serving president in Brazil’s history.
Emergency procedures carried out in 2024 to address and prevent bleeding in his head also raised questions about his long-term health outlook. Lula previously underwent treatment for throat cancer in 2011.
Election Campaign Looms
Political attention around Lula’s condition comes as Brazil moves closer to another presidential election cycle.
Polling for a potential runoff election currently places Lula ahead of right-wing challenger Flavio Bolsonaro in several national surveys. Lula is widely expected to seek a fourth, non-consecutive term in October.
Supporters within Lula’s political camp have attempted to downplay concerns surrounding the latest diagnosis, while government officials continue to stress that his day-to-day duties remain unaffected during treatment.
