Singing legend Eartha Kitt has revealed she has had colon cancer, it has been reported.

The 79-year-old said she was now fine after surgery in April, when the disease was discovered, according to the New York Post.

She found out she had the disease after going to the doctor because her hand was hurting from carpal tunnel syndrome.

First it was found that she was also anaemic, and then further tests discovered the cancer.

"They operated right away, and I'm fine," Kitt told the newspaper.

She added: "I never expect anything to happen to me. I'm the healthiest person in the world."

She also advised everyone to get a colonoscopy, and said she was happy still to be working.

"It makes me feel grateful that I'm still wanted. Anyway, what would I retire to?" she added.

The star begins a month-long residency at New York's famous Cafe Carlyle on Tuesday.