Diane Keaton’s Lifelong Health Struggles: From Skin Cancer to Bulimia

Diane Keaton recently shared personal details about her lifelong health battles. The acclaimed actress has faced significant challenges, including skin cancer and an eating disorder. Her openness provides a rare look into her private struggles.

Keaton’s health journey began early in her career. She has used her platform to raise awareness about these serious conditions. Her experiences highlight important health issues affecting many people.

Skin Cancer Diagnosis and Sun Protection Advocacy

Keaton first encountered skin cancer at just 21 years old. She received a diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma. This early experience shaped her lifelong approach to sun protection.

The actress comes from a family with significant skin cancer history. She told the Los Angeles Times about her aunt’s severe case that required nose removal. Her father and brother also battled the disease.

Keaton now religiously wears hats and uses sunblock. She admitted she didn’t start proper sun care until her 40s. This delay had consequences for her health in later years.

Decades after her initial diagnosis, she developed squamous cell cancer. The removal required two separate surgeries. This reinforced her commitment to sun safety advocacy.

Overcoming Bulimia and Mental Health Challenges

Keaton’s health struggles extended to serious eating disorders. She developed bulimia early in her career. The condition began after being asked to lose weight for a Broadway role.

She described herself as having an “addictive nature” to Dr. Oz in 2014. Her daily calorie intake could reach 20,000 calories. This was typically followed by purging episodes.

The actress sought professional help through intensive therapy. She attended sessions five days per week initially. Though she started by lying to her analyst, she eventually embraced honesty.

Keaton wrote about her recovery in her 2011 memoir “Then Again.” She described feeling like “a sister to all the rest of the women” with eating disorders. Her transparency has helped destigmatize these conditions.

Diane Keaton’s health journey demonstrates remarkable resilience through multiple serious conditions. Her willingness to share these experiences continues to help others facing similar challenges while maintaining her legendary career in Hollywood.

Thought you’d like to know-

What type of skin cancer did Diane Keaton have?

Keaton was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma at age 21. She later developed squamous cell cancer as an adult. Both required surgical procedures for removal.

How did Diane Keaton overcome her eating disorder?

She sought help through intensive psychoanalysis, attending sessions five days weekly. Keaton eventually became completely honest about her struggles. This commitment to therapy facilitated her recovery journey.

When did Keaton start taking sun protection seriously?

She admitted not beginning proper sun care until her 40s. This delay came despite her early skin cancer diagnosis. She now consistently uses hats and sunblock for protection.

Why does Diane Keaton wear hats so often?

Her signature hat style serves as functional sun protection. This practice stems from her family history of skin cancer. The hats help prevent further sun damage to her skin.

How has Keaton helped others with eating disorders?

She has been vocal about her bulimia recovery in interviews and her memoir. Keaton describes feeling connected to others with similar struggles. Her openness has created awareness and reduced stigma.

Trusted Sources

Los Angeles Times, Dr. Oz Show, National Eating Disorders Association