The lead singer and guitarist in US thrash metal group Megadeth, Dave Mustaine, has been diagnosed with throat cancer.
- 'Deepest pain': Slipknot's Shawn Crahan shares heartbreaking post announcing death of 22yo daughter
- Metal legends mourn the loss of Pantera's Vinnie Paul
In a statement released Monday, Mustaine, 57, said his diagnosis is "clearly something to be respected and faced head on - but I've faced obstacles before.
"I'm working closely with my doctors, and we've mapped out a treatment plan which they feel has a 90 percent success rate. Treatment has already begun."
Mustaine's tweet has prompted a raft of encouraging responses from fans and fellow musicians.
"All our strength and love to you my friend. If there’s anyone who can conquer this, it’s you. You’re our hero and we wish nothing but the best for you," wrote Matt Heafy, guitarist and vocalist for heavy metal band Trivium.
Johan Hegg, the singer from Swedish melodic death metal band Amon Amarth wrote simply: "That’s terrible news, but I know you’ll fight through this!"
Megadeth has cancelled its coming tour of several countries to celebrate the band's 35th anniversary.
Mustaine founded Megadeath in 1984 after being ousted from Metallica in 1983.
The thrash metal band has released 15 records, including the platinum-selling "Countdown to Extinction".
Reuters/Newshub.
