Celebrated rock guitarist Eddie Van Halen is taking part in clinical trials to prevent cancer, but does not have the disease himself.

The band's website said Van Halen, 43, had visited the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

Hospital spokeswoman Jane Brust said Van Halen had undergone a thorough investigation and was found not to have cancer.

However, he had decided to take part, as an outpatient, in a clinical trial to prevent tongue cancer, and may have some risk factors for that type of disease, she added.

The star, who is married to actress Valerie Bertinelli, is said to be a heavy smoker.

A statement on the official site reads: "Eddie is planning to begin an outpatient clinical trial to prevent cancer. No further information is being released at this time."

Critical acclaim

Dutch-born Eddie set up the band in 1974, with his brother, Alex, on drums, Michael Anthony on bass and David Lee Roth on vocals.

Their eponymous debut album was released four years later to critical acclaim and went on to sell more than 10 million copies in the United States alone.

Much of the band's success was due to Eddie's outrageous guitar playing and he is considered by many to be one of the finest musicians of his generation.

Van Halen have also been successful in the UK, enjoying top 10 hits with Jump and Why Can't This Be Love in the 1980s.