Senator Bill Nelson diagnosed with cancer

U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, 72, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, his office announced Thursday evening.

A spokesman said the Florida Democrat will be undergoing surgery Monday in Washington D.C.

According to his office, he has no symptoms, and doctors caught the cancer early on.

His office also said that extensive scans show no signs of the cancer spreading outside the prostate.

In the statement, Nelson said, "I’ve been blessed with good health, which has allowed me the great privilege of public service - and I look forward to continuing serving our country and Florida.”

Sen. Nelsonsaid the diagnosis does not change his plans to run for re-election in 2018.