AceShowbiz -

Bruce Dickinson, the lead singer of heavy metal English band Iron Maiden, has undergone a treatment for tongue cancer. The band announced the news in a statement posted on its website on Thursday, February 19.

The statement read, "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," the statement continued.

The band also asked for privacy in this matter until May. "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," they wrote, "Bruce is doing very well considering the circumstances and the whole team are very positive."

Iron Maiden finished a three-year world tour in July 2014 with a headline slot at the Sonisphere Festival.