Then Landers got the modeling contract for the Winston ad campaign. In Hollywood, he was surrounded by stars, many of whom smoked. When Landers checked into the veterans administration hospital for minor surgery, an X-ray showed a tumor on a lung the size of a golf ball. The doctor told Landers not to smoke for at least 10 days before the surgery to remove the tumor. The night before, Landers lit one up.
Cigarettes are the most addictive drug in the world.
He recuperated in Florida. When he thought all traces of cancer were gone, he returned to his acting career. In 1992, Landers decided to have surgery on his sinuses to alleviate his snoring. Again, an X-ray was required. This time, another tumor was found.