Swayze said responding well to treatment

LOS ANGELES, March 5 (UPI) -- Patrick Swayze's publicist said the Hollywood actor is responding well to his treatment for pancreatic cancer, contrary to reports saying he is near death.

The National Enquirer reported Wednesday that Swayze was diagnosed in January with pancreatic cancer that has spread to other organs. The tabloid stated he has been undergoing treatment, but was only expected to live five more weeks.

The New York Post's Page Six column also claimed a representative for Swayze confirmed the actor has been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer and may only have weeks to live.

However, a statement from Swayze's publicist released to TMZ.com said: "Patrick's physician Dr. George Fisher states: 'Patrick has a very limited amount of disease and he appears to be responding well to treatment thus far. All of the reports stating the time frame of his prognosis and his physical side effects are absolutely untrue. We are considerably more optimistic.'"

The statement added: "Patrick is continuing his normal schedule during this time, which includes working on upcoming projects. The outpouring of support and concern he has already received from the public is deeply appreciated by Patrick and his family."

Swayze, 55, is best known for his roles in "The Outsiders," "Road House," "Dirty Dancing" and "Ghost."