BBC News Online: Entertainment: Music

Van Halen reveals he has cancer

He left a message on his band's website telling fans he has been treated, and that he should be cancer-free sometime in the "near future".

He apologised for not letting fans know earlier, but said cancer is a "very unique and private matter".

Cancer specialists and head and neck surgeons in Los Angeles have treated him, although it has not been revealed where the cancer is located.

"I was told that I'm healthier than ever and beating cancer," Van Halen said.

The statement comes after continued speculation about the Dutch-born musician's health.

Success

Last May, Van Halen, 46, was treated at a clinic in Houston, Texas. He was said not to have cancer but to be taking part in clinical trials to help prevent tongue cancer.

He is a long-time smoker and reformed alcoholic.

Van Halen's band formed in Los Angeles in 1974 and is best known for 1980s hits including Jump and Why Can't This Be Love.

Much of the band's success was due to Eddie's outrageous guitar playing and he is considered by many to be one of the finest musicians of his generation.

The group reunited last July with original lead singer David Lee Roth, who had quit in 1985.

Roth released a statement saying he was "stunned", but telling the guitarist he can "whip" the disease.