US Senator John McCain diagnosed with brain cancer

US Senator John McCain has been diagnosed with brain cancer, his office has confirmed on Wednesday in a statement from the Mayo Clinic. 

The tumour was discovered after the former presidential candidate underwent a minor procedure last week to remove a blood clot from above his left eye.

The 2008 Republican presidential nominee is known for his independent streak over more than three decades representing Arizona in the Senate.

McCain, 80, has a glioblastoma, one of the most common but also one of the most malignant brain tumors and an aggressive type of brain cancer, and the prognosis for this kind of cancer is generally poor. It can be treated with chemotherapy and radiation, but medical experts said it almost always grows back.

His office said he was recuperating at his home in Arizona and “appreciates the outpouring of support he has received over the last few days.”