Religious broadcaster Pat Robertson told his television audience today that his doctors had discovered that he had prostate cancer. After extensive tests, it has been determined that the cancer does not appear to have metastasized beyond the prostate.

Doctors have scheduled surgery on Monday, Feb. 17 to remove his prostate. The surgeon who will perform the operation has pioneered the relatively new technique of radical laparoscopic prostatectomy in the United States.

Barring any unforeseen difficulties, his doctors anticipate that Robertson, who will be 73 in March, will be returning to a full schedule within two weeks.

He and his family appreciate your faithful prayers during this time, and thank God for the healing He will provide in the days ahead.