Cancer campaigners have welcomed the positive attitude of the Deputy Sports Minister who is battling against breast cancer.

It is understood that Rhone Brankin, who discovered a lump in one of her breasts two weeks ago, will go into hospital for a mastectomy next week.

At the Scottish Parliament on Thursday, fellow MSPs praised her bravery for talking openly about a disease which terrifies women.

An upbeat Ms Brankin said she hopes to be well enough to return to work within six weeks.

She said it was important to tell women that breast cancer does not have to be viewed as a life-threatening disease.

Ms Brankin added it was important for women to carry out regular health checks to ensure early detection.

In a BBC Scotland interview, she said: "I, in common with many other women, know lots of women who have had breast cancer and are fine.

"It's one of these things where we have to be up front and open about it and matter-of-fact.

"If we're going to encourage more women to become more breast cancer aware, we have to be up front about it, but also let people know that it isn't the killer disease that it used to be."

Members of the Scottish Parliament have wished the minister a speedy recovery.

At the opening of business in the chamber on Thursday, Scottish National Party health spokeswoman Kay Ullrich praised her for her courage.

She said: "Rhona is to be commended for speaking out openly and publicly about her illness and I'm sure this will give support to many other women throughout Scotland."

Ms Rankin, 50, was diagnosed after attending the Western General Infirmary in Edinburgh.

A spokesman for Scottish First Minister Donald Dewar said the Labour chief had expressed deep concern on hearing news of the Midlothian MSP's condition.

Special responsibility

He said: "She will be away from work for a few weeks and in hospital next week for surgery.

"It will take as long as it takes. She has confirmed that she as breast cancer."

Ms Brankin, a former chair of the Scottish Labour Party, has been viewed as one of the rising stars within the Scottish Executive and a staunch Blairite.

She has special responsibility for cultural matters, including the arts, heritage and architecture within the Scottish Executive.