Since June 2022, when Toby Keith initially revealed that he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer, the singer’s health has been a major topic of conversation. The country music community has been anxiously awaiting news about the singer’s condition and prognosis.
Over the past two years, Keith has been fighting cancer, and he has revealed some facts about his treatment to the public while maintaining a positive attitude. On September 28, at the People’s Choice Country Awards, he gave his first public performance since his diagnosis.
Following the announcement, the “Red Solo Cup” singer made it plain that he plans to resume performing with his band very soon. Read on to learn more about Toby Keith’s medical history.
What Illness Does Toby Keith Have?
In the fall of 2021, Keith disclosed that he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer.
“Last fall I was diagnosed with stomach cancer,” Keith posted in June 2022 when he finally made his diagnosis public. “I’ve spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation and surgery. So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover, and relax.”
“I am looking forward to spending this time with my family. But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can’t wait.”
You heard it here first! @tobykeith has plans to get back on the road after battling cancer 👊 More details on his road to recovery this weekend only on #cmtHot20! pic.twitter.com/3p3Rs5a1XM
— CMT Hot 20 Countdown (@cmtHot20) November 19, 2022
Stomach cancer, sometimes called gastric cancer, arises when cancer cells form anywhere in the stomach. However, in the United States, it typically begins at the point where the esophagus links to the stomach, as reported by the Mayo Clinic.
Different forms of stomach cancer develop in different organs and from distinct cell types. According to the National Cancer Institute, adenocarcinoma of the stomach is the most prevalent form. This cancer develops in the mucus-producing cells of the stomach’s inner lining. Most occur in the upper stomach, near the esophagus.
Men and persons of color are more likely to be diagnosed with stomach cancer than women and whites. Having a family history of stomach cancer, being overweight, not getting enough exercise, not quitting smoking, and not drinking alcohol regularly are all risk factors for the disease.
Stomach cancer symptoms include difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, fullness even after eating a small amount, loss of appetite, nausea, acid reflux, indigestion, vomiting, weakness, and black stools.
Toby Keith Illness Update
In June 2023, Keith gave The Oklahoman an update on his health, saying, “I’m feeling very good. Generally speaking, things are looking up, [but] with cancer, you never know, so it’s best to be ready for anything.
If healthy, Keith plans to return to the stage in the fall of 2023.
“I’ve got more wind, and I’m thinking about bringing the band in and setting up, playing two or three days somewhere just to see if I can get through two hours,” he said at the time, adding, “All I gotta do is see if I can get through two or three nights of work and get a little break in this chemo, and we’ll go back to work. I’m ready. That’s living.”
When asked about his prognosis, he replied, “I expect next time I look for that tumor to be even less, and I’ve only got one that’s shown up,” adding that he planned to have his final scan in around eight weeks’ time (which would put it near the end of August 2023). He has not addressed his health since then.
Contents