Press release on the condition of the Prime Minister

As has been stated before, Prime Minister Davíð Oddsson was admitted to the National University Hospital on the morning of 21 July last with inflammation of the gall bladder. Tests revealed in addition a localised tumour in the right kidney. The kidney with the tumour, which proved to be malignant, was surgically removed. Tests carried out in connection with the surgery confirmed that this was an entirely localised growth, which was easily removed. The Prime Minister has made a good, normal recovery from the surgery, and no after-effects were experienced. As the tumour was detected immediately upon admission, and removed that day, further and more extensive tests were carried out after the surgery and on the following days. These tests were exhaustive. They revealed a malignant growth in the thyroid. Following these findings, it was determined that the thyroid and nearby glands should be surgically removed. The surgical procedure was carried out this morning at the National University Hospital, and was highly successful. The Prime Minister is well after the surgery, and according to physicians his prognosis is excellent.

There is no link between these two growths. The Prime Minister will remain in the National University Hospital for another few days to recuperate after the surgery, and will not return to work for another few weeks, until he has made a full recovery.

Prime Minister Davíð Oddsson and his family wish to express their sincere gratitude to the physicians, nurses and other staff of the National University Hospital, who have cared for the Prime Minister with great expertise, professionalism and warmth. They also wish to thank all those many people who have sent the Prime Minister and his family their greetings, good wishes and prayers. Their goodwill and warmth are a great comfort to the Prime Minister and his family at this difficult time.