San Francisco - Apple's iconic CEO Steve Jobs on Monday issued a rare clarification about his state of health after prolonged concern about his unexplained weight loss caused a dive in Apple's shares. In his statement, Jobs, who survived pancreatic cancer four years ago, explained that his gaunt look of late was due to a recently diagnosed hormone imbalance that was depleting proteins in his body.
Blood tests had confirmed the diagnosis and "the remedy for this nutritional problem is relatively simple and straightforward, and I have already begun treatment," said Jobs, who added that he would continue to serve as Apple's CEO during his recovery.
In a separate statement, Apple's board of directors promised Jobs its "complete and unwavering support during his recuperation."
The renewed speculation about Jobs' health was sparked last month when the founder of Apple said he would not be giving his traditional keynote presentation at the MacWorld Expo which began on Monday in San Francisco.