BEIJING, May 20 -- Australian pop star Kylie Minogue, who had been diagnosed with breast cancer, is undergoing tests in preparation for surgery later this week.

Australian pop star Kylie Minogue, who had been diagnosed with breast cancer, is undergoing tests in preparation for surgery later this week.(AFP file Photo)

    "Kylie is currently undergoing tests at a first-class medical facility in Melbourne in preparation for an operation this week by one of Australia's leading surgeons," her manager, Terry Blamey, said in a statement Thursday.

    The diagnosis of early breast cancer indicates that the disease has not spread to any vital organs and can be surgically removed, according to a Reuters report.

    The 36-year-old Australian pop star said her boyfriend, French actor Olivier Martinez, is with her.

    Minogue thanked her fans for their support. In a brief statement, Minogue expressed her heartfelt thanks to the incredible number of people who have sent messages of love and support over the last two days.

    ¡°I would also like to extend my best wishes to all of the other women around Australia and around the world who are dealing with the same illness,¡± Kylie said.

    Minogue encouraged fans who are thinking of sending cards or flowers to make donations to breast cancer charities instead.

    The singer announced that she had been diagnosed with an early stage of the cancer on Tuesday, and subsequently canceled her Showgirl Tour of Australia and Asia to seek immediate treatment. Enditem

(Agencies)

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