Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, has been diagnosed with a form of skin cancer, British media is reporting, in another health problem for a member of Britain’s royal family.

Ferguson, 64, who was married to Prince Andrew and is the mother of his two daughters, was treated for breast cancer last year.

On Sunday (British time), it was revealed she has now been diagnosed with malignant melanoma after several moles were removed.

“Following her diagnosis with an early form of breast cancer this summer, Sarah, Duchess of York has now been diagnosed with malignant melanoma,” the statement read.

“Her dermatologist asked that several moles were removed and analysed at the same time as the duchess was undergoing reconstructive surgery following her mastectomy, and one of these has been identified as cancerous.

The representative said Fergie was “undergoing further investigations to ensure that this has been caught in the early stages”.

“Clearly, another diagnosis so soon after treatment for breast cancer has been distressing, but the duchess remains in good spirits,” the spokesman said.

“The duchess wants to thank the entire medical team which has supported her, particularly her dermatologist whose vigilance ensured the illness was detected when it was.

“She believes her experience underlines the importance of checking the size, shape, colour and texture and emergence of new moles that can be a sign of melanoma.”

Ferguson, often known as Fergie, has spoken of the importance of coming forward for cancer checks after her initial breast cancer surgery.

Her breast cancer diagnosis followed a routine mammogram screening.

“She was advised she needed to undergo surgery, which has taken place successfully,” a representative said at the time.

The Duke of York, younger brother of the King, and daughters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie were reported to be by her side as she recovered.

Her new diagnosis was reported as the King, 75, prepares for a “corrective procedure” for an enlarged prostate this week.

“In common with thousands of men each year, the King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate,” the statement read.

On Wednesday royal officials also announced that Catherine, wife of Charles’ heir Prince William, had undergone successful planned abdominal surgery. The Princess of Wales remains in hospital, where she is expected to stay for up to a fortnight.

-with AAP