Tom Brokaw Diagnosed With Cancer

Tom Brokaw is battling cancer.  NBC announced Tuesday that the veteran news anchor has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, which affects blood cells in the bone marrow but called the prognosis "encouraging." 

In a statement, the 74-year-old news vet said he was "very optimistic about the future" and that he's looking forward to continuing his life, his work and his adventures still to come.  Brokaw added, "I remain the luckiest guy I know."  He also said he was very grateful for the interest in his condition but hoped everyone would respect his wishes to deal with it privately.

Brokaw has worked at NBC News since 1966.  He anchored "NBC Nightly News" from 1982 to 2004 and currently serves as a Special Correspondent for NBC. (Metro Networks Inc.)