Iommi revealed in January of 2012 that he has lymphoma, which is described by the Mayo Clinic as "a cancer of the lymphatic system, the body's disease-fighting network. The lymphatic system includes the lymph nodes (lymph glands), spleen, thymus gland and bone marrow."

Here is what he had to tell fans, "Well we've finished the US leg of our world tour. It was a bit longer than I would have liked as I've already been in hospital having another infusion.

"The tour was amazing though, you always hope it's going to go well but you never know, it's great to look out and see so many people of all ages. The new songs have been going down well, we've played them enough now so we're comfortable and that helps the performance.

"Many thanks to everyone who came to see us, South America next, and just like Australia this is a first time for Ozzy, Geezer and me together. All the best!"

Earlier this year Iommi explained to the Birmingham Mail what the "infusion" treatment involved and why he needs it for his cancer treatment. He explained, "I have to have an antibody administered by drip every six weeks or so to keep the lymphoma in check. It sort of coats the cancer cells, stops it from going anywhere else. I have to come back home no matter where I might be in the world.

"The tour dates are arranged so that I can always get back for treatment. It's the only way I can manage my illness and keep on the road. I'd love to play more shows than we're doing but my health has to be sorted out first.

"The infusions I have are part of the chemotherapy regime. It's relatively new treatment and they don't know what all the side-effects might be yet, but I wanted to try it.

"After each session I feel sick and tired, and that lasts for a week or so. I'm finding that it takes around 10 days to fully recover from each round of treatment, but if that's what it takes, I have to accept it."