Actor Dennis Hopper has been diagnosed with prostate cancer at the age of 73. The Easy Rider star has cancelled forthcoming appearances in order to focus on a special program of treatment at the University of Southern California. Hopper had planned to travel to Australia for an upcoming exhibition of his photography and artwork, entitled “Dennis Hopper and the New Hollywood,” but he cancelled the trip when he received the diagnosis. He is also starring in a television adaptation of the oscar-winning film Crash.

Sam Maydew, the actor's manager, said they are “hoping for the best,” but did not discuss the details of Hopper's condition. Earlier in the month, Hopper was hospitalized in New York for flu-like symptoms and treated for dehydration. Since 1955, Hopper has appeared in a total of two hundred films and television shows, including the films Rebel Without A Cause, Easy Rider, Blue Velvet, Apocalypse Now and Speed. He has also garnered acclaim as an accomplished writer and director. Prostate Cancer is found in approximately 80% of men who reach the age of 80. If detected in its earliest stages, the cancer has a survival rate of 100%. Regular prostate cancer screenings are recommended for men beginning at age 45.