Entertainment

Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi diagnosed with cancer

January 9, 2012 / 3:16 PM EST / CBS/AP

Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath appears at a press conference to announce their first new album in 33 years and a world tour in 2012 on Nov. 11, 2011, in West Hollywood, Calif. Getty

(CBS/AP) LOS ANGELES - Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi has cancer.

The band released a statement Monday saying the 63-year-old has been diagnosed with lymphoma and is working with doctors on treatment.

"With the news that Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi has been diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma, his bandmates would like everyone to send positive vibes to the guitarist at this time," the statement, posted on Iommi's website, said. "Iommi is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan - the 'IRON MAN' of Rock & Roll remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery."

The news comes two months after the pioneering heavy metal quartet's original lineup announced it was working on its first album in 33 years with producer Rick Rubin in Los Angeles. The album remains set for a fall release and the rest of the group - vocalist Ozzy Osbourne, bassist Geezer Butler and drummer Bill Ward - will go to England to continue working with Iommi.

There was no word about Sabbath's plans for its live dates.