Louisiana Congressman Steve Scalise announces he has cancer

Republican Louisiana U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise, the state's highest ranking member of Congress as House majority leader, announced Tuesday that he has cancer.

Scalise, who represents Louisiana's 1st Congressional District that includes part of New Orleans and what's known as the state's bayou country, said he has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, which is a blood cancer.

He said he will continue working while undergoing treatment.

“After a few days of not feeling like myself this past week, I had some blood work done," Scalise said in his statement. "The results uncovered some irregularities, and after undergoing additional tests, I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a very treatable blood cancer. “I have now begun treatment, which will continue for the next several months. I expect to work through this period and intend to return to Washington, continuing my work as majority leader and serving the people of Louisiana’s 1st Congressional District.“I am incredibly grateful we were able to detect this early and that this cancer is treatable. I am thankful for my excellent medical team, and with the help of God, support of my family, friends, colleagues and constituents, I will tackle this with the same strength and energy as I have tackled past challenges.”

Scalise, 57, is serving his ninth term in the House.

His colleagues in Congress expressed their support when the news broke.

“I join with so many others in prayer for Steve and his family," Republican Louisiana U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy said in a statement. "The same faith, family support, and internal strength that made Steve such an inspiration to others after he was shot will bring him through this illness and once more inspire us all.”

Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. Follow him on Twitter @GregHilburn1

This article originally appeared on Monroe News-Star: Louisiana Congressman Steve Scalise announces he has cancer