- The rocker, 64, had part of his tongue removed in 2000, blaming holding the pick in his mouth, and had reportedly been declared cancer free in 2002
- But he has been going to Germany for treatment over the last five years, TMZ say
- A source told the site ‘for the most part it’s worked to keep the disease in check’
- The band last performed in 2015 at at L.A.’s Hollywood Bowl and there were rumors the band’s classic lineup were set to perform for the first time since 1984
Eddie Van Halen is suffering from throat cancer which he believes he contracted after years of sucking on his metal guitar pick, according to reports.
The veteran rocker, 64, was diagnosed with cancer nearly 20 years ago and has been travelling between the United States and Germany for treatment, TMZ reports.
He had a third of his tongue removed in 2000 and had reportedly been declared cancer free in 2002 but has now been to Germany to get radiation treatment over the last five years.
The Van Halen star, who was a ‘heavy smoker’, is said to blame holding the pick in his mouth while on stage for his diagnosis.