Yauch, better known as MCA, said he was due to have imminent surgery on a cancerous tumour in his left salivary gland.

The bassist, who is expected to make a full recovery, made the announcement in a video on YouTube.

Appearing alongside band mate Adam 'Ad-Rock' Horowitz, Yauch said the disease was localised to the preaortic gland and the neighbouring lymph node.

But he added: "It's not in a place that affects my voice, so that's nice. That's convenient."

Yauch also apologised to fans who were awaiting the release of the band’s new album and subsequent tour.

"I just need a little time to get this in check and then we'll release the record and play some shows,” he said.

You can watch the announcement below:

(by Jason Gregory)