"I was actually screened a few months ago for cancer cells for which I am currently being treated," he wrote.

"My life is not in danger today," added the 73-year-old who has been described as the French Elvis.

"I'm doing very well and in good physical condition," he added.

Hallyday's announcement came ahead of the publication Thursday by Closer magazine of an article which describes his condition as of serious concern.

While Hallyday has never achieved widespread fame abroad, he is a musical icon at home and has sold more than 100 million records in his decades-long career.

His health has been the subject of media speculation since he was hospitalised in 2009 in the United States for complications following a hernia operation, and was put in an artificial coma.