Michael Douglas talks about cancer struggle

Michael Douglas opened up about his recent throat cancer diagnosis on Tuesday's episode of "Late Show With David Letterman," telling the CBS host that "it hurts a lot."

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The actor said he was diagnosed three weeks ago with Stage 4 cancer after realizing something was wrong early this summer when he came down with a "really sore throat." He added that he just finished his first week of radiation and chemotherapy and "that it's about an eight-week struggle."

When Letterman told Douglas he'd "never looked better to me and this proves that you're a tough guy," the actor replied: "Let's just say I'm pretty lit up -- I'm pretty lit up right now."

Douglas, who was on the show to promote his upcoming film "Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps," said throat cancer is caused by alcohol and drinking and admitted to having done both. The cancer hasn't spread below the neck, "so nothing's gone down, and the expectations are good," Douglas said, adding that he has an 80% chance of recovery.

Douglas announced his diagnosis Aug. 16. He has since canceled scheduled appearances at the CLSA Investors' Forum in Hong Kong and at the Zurich Film Festival, where Danny DeVito will accept the festival's Golden Icon Award on Douglas' behalf.

When Letterman asked if he could do anything for Douglas, the actor said, "Ahh, give me a hug." The host complied as the audience gave a standing ovation.

Watch part of the interview here.