Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter announced Wednesday that he has cancer. He said it was discovered recently during liver surgery.

In a short statement, Mr. Carter did not say what kind of cancer he has. A more complete public statement will be made when facts are known, possibly next week, he said.

The former president established the Carter Foundation after leaving the White House in 1981. He has traveled the world working on issues like health care, democratic reform, women and children's rights, and affordable housing.