Peter Tork dead: What rare cancer did Peter Tork have? How many are affected annually?

Peter Tork, a member of rock band the Monkees, has died aged 77. Born in 1942, the rocker was known for his time as both a keyboard player and bass guitarist with the band. The Monkees was a fictional band created for the show of the same name, active in the mid-1960s to early 1970s. His death was confirmed via Facebook, in a popular fan group for the musician.

What cancer did Peter Tork have?

On March 3 2009, Tork confirmed a biopsy had discovered adenoid cystic carcinoma, a slow-growing and rare cancer which affects the head and neck.

In Tork, the disease was discovered on his tongue.

While he acknowledged the diagnosis was “bad news” he did share optimism doctors had with the progression of the disease.

READ MORE: How did Peter Tork die?

Tork told his fans of the news via a post to his official website, in which he opened up on the details of his cancer.

He said: “It’s so rare a combination (on the tongue) that there isn’t a lot of experience among the medical community about this particular combination.

“On the other hand, the type of cancer it is, never mind the location, is somewhat well known, and the prognosis, I’m told, is good.”

He was told surgery the day after his diagnosis was successful, however, his cancer returned in June the same year.

After a bout of radiation therapy in September 2009, he was finally given the all clear.

READ MORE: Monkees members DETERMINED to honour legacy

How many people are affected by Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma?

After his diagnosis, Tork frequently helped to raise awareness for the rare form of cancer, which affects a small number of people each year.

In the US alone, 1,200 people are annually affected by the disease, 60 percent of whom are women.

While it is rare, 89 percent of people will survive past five years, and 40 percent will survive 15 years.

READ MORE: Cancer diagnosis STUNNED Peter Tork

The Facebook group named Peter Tork said: “It is with beyond-heavy and broken hearts that we share the devastating news that our friend, mentor, teacher, and amazing soul, Peter Tork, has passed from this world.

“We want to thank each and every one of you for your love, dedication and support of our “boss.”

“Having you in our world has meant so very much to all of us.

“Please know that Peter was extremely appreciative of you, his Torkees, and one of his deepest joys was to be out in front of you, playing his music, and seeing you enjoy what he had to share.”

source: express.co.uk