(WXYZ) — Long-time "Jeopardy!" host Alex Trebek announced in a Youtube video Wednesday that he has been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer.
Trebek, 78, said he wanted to make the announcement to ensure that there was no speculation or misinformation surrounding his illness.
"It's in keeping with my long-time policy of being open and transparent with our 'Jeopardy!' fan base," Trebek said in the under 2-minute video.
"Normally, the prognosis for this is not very encouraging," he said. "But I'm going to fight this and I'm going to keep working, and with the love and support of my family and friends, and with the help of your prayers also."
More than 50,000 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer each year. Trebek says he's determined to beat the disease.
"I plan to beat the low survival rate statistics for this disease," he said. "Truth told, I have to because under the terms of my contract I have to host 'Jeopardy!' for three more years."
The Canadian-American television personality has hosted "Jeopardy!" since 1984.
Watch the full announcement below:
