DOVER — Rep. Harold "Jack" Peterman, R-Milford, announced Wednesday he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Rep. Peterman has been dealing with health issues for several years and has undergone multiple spinal surgeries to fix pinched nerves.

Harold "Jack" Peterman

The malignancy was removed through a recent prostatectomy.

“I’m disappointed by this latest obstacle to returning to full health, but I am not letting it stop me,” Rep. Peterman, 73, said in a statement. “I am working with my doctors and following their advice to make this recovery as short as possible. Unfortunately, I will be unable to attend the General Assembly during this period, but I plan to return as soon as is possible.”

No timetable for his return has been set, although Rep. Peterman said he is hopeful. The American Cancer Society says that only skin cancer is more common among men, and many men are able to make a full recovery from the disease.

Rep. Peterman, who missed nearly three-quarters of roll calls last year due to health issues, was first elected to the House in 2010. He has not yet decided whether he will run for re-election in the 33rd Representative District.

Charles Postles, who ran for the office in 2014, and Morgan Hudson have both filed for the seat.