Lauren Laverne: Desert Island Discs presenter diagnosed with cancer

BBC host Lauren Laverne recently shared that she has received a cancer diagnosis and is currently undergoing treatment in a hospital.

Posting on Instagram on a Wednesday morning, Laverne mentioned that the cancer was "discovered at an early stage and unexpectedly during a routine screening".

She also mentioned to her followers that she is anticipated to fully recover and expressed gratitude to the medical team who looked after her.

Laverne hosts the morning show on BBC Radio 6 Music and also hosts Desert Island Discs on BBC Radio 4.

In her message, Laverne expressed her gratitude to the medical staff for their exceptional skills and kindness during her stay in the hospital.

The 46-year-old also expressed gratitude towards her coworkers for their support and understanding in allowing her to take the time off necessary for her recovery.

She said her family and friends have been amazing and supportive throughout the entire journey.

Laverne encouraged individuals who were "delaying a test or postponing an appointment" to schedule an evaluation as soon as possible.

"Half of the population will experience cancer at some stage in their lives, so detecting it early is crucial," she explained.

She finished by saying: "I usually try to bring positive energy on the airwaves, but I would appreciate any extra good vibes you can send my way. I'm sending lots of love to anyone going through a tough time, or who has managed to overcome their struggles."

Laverne took over as the host of Desert Island Discs on BBC Radio 4 in 2018 while Kirsty Young was on a break because of health problems.

She eventually became the permanent host of the show and has conducted interviews with famous Hollywood celebrities such as Cate Blanchett and Stanley Tucci, as well as Young herself, throughout the years.

Besides being on the radio, Laverne has also hosted different TV programs such as The One Show on the BBC and Channel 4's 10 O'Clock Live.

Laverne became famous as the main singer and guitarist of the 90s pop punk group Kenickie.

Upon sharing her diagnosis on Instagram, the radio DJ was flooded with messages of encouragement from her peers and followers.

Other BBC hosts Gabby Logan, Clara Amfo, and Anita Rani have shared their best wishes, along with celebrities like comedian Sarah Millican and McFly's Harry Judd who have also left comments on her social media post.

TV host Dermot O'Leary, actor Richard E Grant, and ex-Match Of The Day host Ian Wright all shared heart emojis on social media.

A representative from the BBC said: "All of us at 6 Music, Radio 4, and The One Show are sending our good thoughts to Lauren and can't wait for her to come back to work whenever she's prepared."

Following the announcement of Lauren's diagnosis on her morning show, presenter Deb Grant, who was filling in for her, expressed: "I just wanted to convey the well wishes of all of us here at 6 Music. We're keeping you in our thoughts and we look forward to your return soon... we care for you, Lauren."

Next, Grant performed the song We Can Work It Out, noting that it is a top pick for Laverne.

Nick Grimshaw will be taking over the hosting duties for the 6 Music Breakfast Show next week as Lauren Laverne is taking a planned vacation.

The BBC stated that the presenter for the following week will be revealed at a later time.

The radio show Desert Island Discs is not currently broadcasting, but it will be back on the air in the middle of September.