Diane Keaton’s Lifelong Health Battles

Hollywood legend Diane Keaton has passed away at 79. Her family confirmed the news on Saturday, October 11. The actress was a beloved icon known for her prolific career.

While the cause of death was not disclosed, Keaton was remarkably open about her past health struggles. She publicly detailed her fights with skin cancer and a severe eating disorder. These battles shaped much of her later life and advocacy.

How Keaton Confronted Her Skin Cancer Diagnosis

Keaton faced skin cancer multiple times throughout her life. She cited a strong family history of the disease. This genetic link made her particularly vigilant in her later years.

She was first diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma. Decades later, she developed squamous cell cancer. According to the Los Angeles Times, this required two separate surgeries to remove completely.

Keaton admitted she neglected sun protection in her youth. She did not start proper sun care until she was in her 40s. This delay, she said, led to lifelong skin health issues.

Her signature fashion choice of wide-brimmed hats served a dual purpose. They were a style statement, but also a crucial shield against harmful UV rays. She became an advocate for consistent sunscreen use.

A Courageous Fight Against Bulimia

Keaton’s health challenges were not solely physical. She also waged a long and difficult war against bulimia. She spoke about this addiction with raw honesty on “The Dr. Oz Show.”

At the height of her disorder, her eating was extreme. She described consuming a bucket of chicken, multiple fries, TV dinners, and entire cakes in one sitting. This was typically followed by purging.

She credited psychoanalysis with saving her life. Keaton attended therapy five days a week to address the mental roots of her addiction. This commitment was a cornerstone of her recovery journey.

She first wrote about her eating disorder in her 2011 memoir, “Then Again.” Keaton said sharing her story made her feel like a “sister” to others with similar struggles. It was her way of joining a community of recovery and support.

Diane Keaton’s legacy extends beyond her iconic film roles. Her candidness about her skin cancer and eating disorder provided inspiration and solace to countless others facing similar health battles. She will be remembered for her strength and humanity.

Thought you’d like to know

What type of skin cancer did Diane Keaton have?

Keaton was diagnosed with both basal cell carcinoma and, later, squamous cell carcinoma. These are the two most common forms of skin cancer. She underwent surgeries to remove them.

How did Diane Keaton recover from her eating disorder?

She sought intensive psychoanalytic therapy, attending sessions five days a week. Keaton openly discussed her addiction to food and her recovery process. She described herself as an “addict in recovery.”

Was Diane Keaton’s skin cancer linked to sun exposure?

Yes, Keaton attributed her skin cancer in part to a lack of sun protection in her youth. She admitted she did not start using sunscreen regularly until her 40s. She also had a significant family history of the disease.

Why did Diane Keaton always wear hats?

Her trademark hats were both a fashion choice and a practical health measure. They provided essential shade and protection for her face and skin from the sun. This was a key part of her strategy to prevent further skin damage.

When did Diane Keaton first reveal her eating disorder?

She first detailed her struggle with bulimia in her 2011 memoir, “Then Again.” She later discussed it more extensively in television interviews. Keaton said going public was a relief.

Trusted Sources

People, Los Angeles Times, E! News, NY Daily News