Iron Maiden Singer Bruce Dickinson Battling Cancer, Undergoes Treatment for Tumor on Tongue—Read the Band's Statement

He was diagnosed after a routine check-up just before Christmas 2014

Iron Maiden frontman Bruce Dickinson is recovering after undergoing treatments for more than a month to remove a cancerous tumor from his tongue.

The news was announced on the iconic heavy metal band's website and social media accounts on Thursday, alongside a photo of the 56-year-old British singer, a powerful vocalist, performing at a concert with stage fire effects in the background.

"Just before Christmas, Maiden vocalist Bruce Dickinson visited his doctor for a routine check-up," the message said. "This led to tests and biopsies which revealed a small cancerous tumor at the back of his tongue. A seven week course of chemotherapy and radiology treatment was completed yesterday. As the tumor 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 added. "It will then 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."

Dickinson, a father of three, and his family have not commented personally.

Iron Maiden rose to fame in the '80s and is known for commercially successful hits "Run to the Hills," "Flight of Icarus" and "Trooper." Last year, the group finished a two-year world tour in 2014 after performing in 100 cities.

The band's 15th and latest album, The Final Frontier, was released in 2010. Last December, the group sent its fan club members an autographed Christmas card that led many to speculate that a new record was in the works. It featured Iron Maiden mascot Eddie near a snow-covered studio and contained the message, "Eddie's got a little Christmas gift for everyone who's been REALLY BAD! Must not be opened until 2015..."

Following news of Dickinson's cancer battle, many fans, including fellow metal band Anthrax, posted messages of support on Twitter.

"Cancer just f--ked with the wrong guy!" the group said. "Get well soon Bruce!..."