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Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez confirmed he had suffered a recurrence of cancer, saying he would need radiotherapy treatment after the removal of another tumor even though there was no evidence of metastasis.
A meeting with his cabinet aired on Venezuelan government TV on Sunday (March 4), although it was recorded on Saturday (March 3).
During the televised meeting with some cabinet colleagues from Cuba, Chavez said it was a recurrence of the cancer that was first diagnosed.
He also confirmed he would need further treatment.
Chavez's comments about his health came at the end of a 90-minute address to Venezuelans, shown on live TV, in which he expressed confidence in his recovery, told jokes, and signed state papers.
Chavez is seeking to extend his 13-year rule at a presidential election in October, but his health problems have raised doubts about his capacity to campaign for the presidency or to rule for another six-year term should he win.
Chavez gave no word on when he would return to Venezuela.
