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Good morning to you all.
I invited you here so that I could convey to the public a personal announcement regarding my health.
For the past few years, I have undergone an annual examination which allows for, inter alia, early detection and diagnosis. Upon my return from a state visit to Russia ten days ago, I underwent an examination, the results of which were relayed to me last weekend. The results show that, due to early detection, the first signs of a malignant tumor were discovered in my prostate gland.
According to my doctors, this is a microscopic growth which has not metastasized, and which may be removed during a short surgical procedure. The surgical treatment is planned for the coming months.
I will be able to fully fulfill my duties, both before the treatment and several hours after it. My doctors, with whom you may speak shortly, have informed me that I will recover fully and that the growth which was discovered is not life-threatening and will not harm my ability to function or fulfill the mission with which I have been entrusted. Therefore, I intend to continue working and dedicating myself to matters of state.
Despite not being legally obligated to report to the public regarding my health status, I wanted to bring this information to the public openly and fully on my own initiative soon after receiving the medical opinion. The citizens of Israel have the right to know and I feel that I have an obligation to the public to inform them in this regard.
I am certain that you have many questions and my doctors, Prof. Koby Ramon and Dr. Shlomo Segev of the Sheba Medical Center, have been authorized to answer any medical questions about me. I thank them for the ongoing medical care which allowed for such early detection of the disease.
Thank you and good day.
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