Tommy Chong diagnosed with prostate cancer

Comedian and stoner icon Tommy Chong has been diagnosed with stage one prostate cancer.

The Cheech & Chong star confirmed the health crisis during a Saturday night interview with news channel CNN, revealing he was diagnosed last month.

He said, "I've got prostate cancer, and I'm treating it with hemp oil, with cannabis... I'm taking it as a medicine."

Chong insists his cancer battle is not related to his love of marijuana - because he was drug free when he started having prostate-related problems several years ago.

And the comic told CNN newsman Don Lemon his diagnosis has made him even more determined to decriminalise weed.

He added, "It means a lot more to me than just being able to smoke a joint without being arrested."

It is not known whether Chong's health issues will upset his plans for a Cheech & Chong comedy tour, scheduled for later this year.