Brazil’s Lula Begins Preventive Radiotherapy After Skin Cancer Diagnosis

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has begun preventive radiation treatment after being diagnosed with early-stage skin cancer, his doctors and his office said Monday, May 25, 2026. The 80-year-old leader started superficial radiotherapy on his scalp following the removal of a skin lesion last month. Officials said he is expected to keep up his regular schedule during treatment.

Doctors at Sirio-Libanes Hospital said in a medical note that the decision was made to proceed with complementary preventive treatment. A spokesperson for Brazil’s presidency said the lesion was small and diagnosed as early-stage cancer.

Lula had a basal cell lesion removed on April 24. The spokesperson said he will undergo 15 radiotherapy sessions intended to prevent further lesions.

Treatment plan and recent medical history

Officials said Lula will maintain his daily activities without restrictions while undergoing the sessions. The hospital note described the therapy as superficial radiotherapy focused on the scalp.

Lula, Brazil’s oldest sitting president, has faced other health issues in recent years. He underwent emergency surgeries in 2024 to treat and prevent bleeding in his head, and he was treated for throat cancer in 2011.

Political calendar and what comes next

The health update comes as Lula is expected to run for a fourth non-consecutive term in October. He currently leads right-wing challenger Flavio Bolsonaro in several opinion polls for a potential second-round runoff.

Officials have not indicated any change to Lula’s public agenda, and the presidency has said he will continue working during the course of treatment.