NASHVILLE (AP) - A GOP leader in the state Senate says he has been diagnosed with cancer and plans to undergo treatment.

Republican Caucus Chairman Bill Ketron of Murfreesboro told media on Thursday that he has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. He said in a statement that the cancer was found last month after he discovered a lump in his neck.

Ketron said he wanted to inform his constituents "firsthand" about his condition.

"Just about everyone knows someone who has cancer or has personally experienced it," he noted. "I want to be up-front with the people in my district about the challenges I am facing and follow in the footsteps of so many brave citizens who have brought awareness to this disease."

Treatments are expected to take him away from his duties for only a brief period. He says he looks forward "to continuing to represent the people of Rutherford County" for many years.

"I will be receiving chemotherapy in the coming weeks and my doctors are optimistic," he said. "While this will be a difficult journey, my faith in God and confidence in my doctors make me optimistic that there will be a good outcome."

Ketron added that "I also appreciate the prayers of others as I walk down this path."