Bruce Dickinson undergoing cancer treatment

Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden has been diagnosed with cancer of the tongue and undergoing chemotherapy treatment.

Bruce joined Iron Maiden in 1981 as their fourth lead singer and left from 1993 to 1999, but he is still seen as the epitome of front man for the group.

Fans were shocked to find out on Thursday that Dickinson has been treated recently for cancer. There's also relief in the message that it was found early and he is expected to fully recover.

The following statement was posted on the band's website earlier today:

Just before Christmas, Maiden vocalist Bruce Dickinson visited his doctor for a routine check-up. This led to tests and biopsies which revealed a small cancerous tumour at the back of his tongue. A seven week course of chemotherapy and radiology treatment was completed yesterday. As the tumour was caught in the early stages, the prognosis thankfully is extremely good. Bruce's medical team fully expect him to make a complete recovery with the all clear envisaged by late May. It will then take a further few months for Bruce to get back to full fitness. In the meantime we would ask for your patience, understanding and respect for Bruce and his family's privacy until we update everyone by the end of May. Bruce is doing very well considering the circumstances and the whole team are very positive.

Iron Maiden's last album was 2010's The Final Frontier and their last tour, Maiden England 2014, ended last July at the Sonisphere Festival in Knebworth, UK.

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