Iron Maiden's Bruce Dickinson has tongue cancer.

The 56-year-old rocker has undergone seven weeks of chemotherapy and radiology after a small tumour was discovered at the back of his mouth during a routine check-up last December.

A statement on the band's official website reads: ''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.''

Despite the positive prognosis, the group predict it will take Bruce a little while to completely recover from his bout of ill health and have asked their fans to respect his privacy at this time.

The statement continued: ''It will 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.''

Meanwhile, the heavy metal band - comprised of Steve Harris, Dave Murray, Adrian Sith, Nicko McBrain and Janick Gers - finished a three-year world tour last July and hinted during their headline slot at the Sonisphere Festival in Hertfordshire, England, last year that a new album could be on its way.