Washington: Conservative radio firebrand Rush Limbaugh disclosed Monday he has "advanced lung cancer" but vowed to continue with his show as he undergoes treatment.
Limbaugh, known as a provocateur or "shock" host who has a right-wing following, made the announcement on his radio broadcasWashington: "The upshot is that I have been diagnosed with advanced lung cancer, diagnosis confirmed by two medical institutions back on January 20th," he said.
Limbaugh added that while he may miss some broadcasts, "my intention is to come here every day I can and to do this program as normally and as competently and as expertly as I do each and every day, because that is the source of my greatest satisfaction professionally, personally."
His syndicated show has been aired since 1988 and he has been seen as a significant influencer of the conservative movement since the Ronald Reagan presidency, even as he has been accused of promoting conspiracy theories and misinformation.
Limbaugh helped spread "birther" theories that president Barack Obama was born outside the United States, and contended that last year's mosque shootings in New Zealand, which killed 51 Muslims, were staged as a "false flag" operation by a leftist to attack conservatives.
US President Donald Trump wished Limbaugh well on Monday evening.
"Many people do not know what a great guy & fantastic political talent the great Rush Limbaugh is. There is nobody like him," Trump wrote on Twitter. "Looking for a speedy recovery for our friend."
Democratic presidential hopeful Tulsi Gabbard also sent her support.
"To Rush Limbaugh: I and my family send our love and best wishes to you and your loved ones at this difficult moment in your life," the Hawaii congresswoman tweeted.
"May your hearts and minds be filled with and strengthened by God's love."
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