'What Jamie Theakston has done can help save lives'

One of the country's leading doctors has praised Jamie Theakston after the radio presenter revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer.

The Heart Breakfast co-host announced his diagnosis with stage one laryngeal cancer earlier today. Theakston, 53, who presents the station's weekly breakfast show alongside Amanda Holden, shared the news on social media.

In a statement, he said: "Hi folks, as you know – I recently had an operation to remove a lesion from my vocal cords. The biopsy has identified this as stage 1 laryngeal cancer.

READ MORE: Lorraine Kelly sends heartfelt message to Jamie Theakston live on air after cancer news

"So – I have cancer – but cancer doesn't have me. The prognosis is very positive and I'm hoping to be back with you in October.

"Until then, I've been told to give my voice a rest and leave you in the mostly capable hands of JK (Jason King) and Amanda. Big thanks to them and all the Global family who have been unbelievably supportive.

"Be thankful for this day, and when I next see you, I’ve got a great story to tell … Jamie x.

Laryngeal cancer is a form of cancer that affects the larynx, according to the NHS website, and symptoms include pain when swallowing, a lump or swelling in the neck, and a persistent sore throat.

Responding to the news, NHS England’s national clinical director for cancer, Professor Peter Johnson said: "While any cancer diagnosis is daunting, it is really positive that Jamie’s has been picked up early. Talking about cancer and how to spot signs and symptoms helps save lives, as detecting cancer early gives people the best chance of successful treatment.

"One in two of us will develop some form of cancer in our lifetime – but thanks to continued progress, more cancers are now being diagnosed at an early stage than ever before and survival rates are at an all-time high, so I would encourage anyone to visit their GP if they have worrying symptoms, and to take up screening appointments when they receive them."