Kath & Kim star has breast cancer

Gina Riley who plays Kim, left, on Kath & Kim has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Photo / Supplied

Australian comedienne Gina Riley is receiving treatment for breast cancer.

The Kath & Kim star was diagnosed with the disease before Christmas last year and has since had the cancer surgically removed, according to News Ltd newspapers.

She is now preparing to undergo further treatment.

Doctor's from Melbourne's Cabrini Hospital have told the Daily Telegraph the cancer was detected early and have described Riley's prognosis as "excellent".

Riley, 51, says she feels lucky and grateful that the cancer was found early and is treatable.

"I am being looked after by an amazing medical team. I encourage women to have regular breast checks, as the earlier it is found the better the outcome," Riley said in a statement.

The actress first rose to fame in the late 1980s sketch comedy series Fast Forward. She is now known for her role as "Kim" in Kath & Kim, co-starring Jane Turner.

Riley and Turner took their TV characters to the big screen in Kath & Kimderella last year.

- AAP