Thurston Moore has cancelled his upcoming book tour due to a secret battle with a "debilitating" medical condition.

The 65-year-old Sonic Youth co-founder had been due to embark on a trek around the US later this month to promote his new memoir 'Sonic Life' but he's called off the trip following advice from his doctors who have ordered him not to fly - with the musician revealing he's been secretly battling an undisclosed medical issue for years but it has worsened since he hit his mid-60s.

In a post on his Instagram page, Thurston explained: "It utterly bereaves me to pass on the news that I have been advised by my medical team here in the UK to cancel my upcoming USA book tour.

"For years I have been dealing with a longstanding health condition, though it has never seriously stopped me from touring and recording. Regardless it’s always been an underlying issue and as I reach my mid-60s this year it has become rather, and consistently, debilitating. After a recent consultation, my doctors have strongly advised against me flying anywhere under any circumstance until they get it all sorted out."

He called the cancellation "utterly distressing" because he was looking forward to sharing his stories with fans, but he's insisted his followers will get refunds on their tickets and he hopes to be able to reorganise the dates in the future.

Thurston added: "Fingers firmly crossed I have a chance to make it up to you when I’m cleared for travel again. As it is I am grateful to have such an awesome support system of love and attention at this moment. And to know how much love, respect, and appreciation we all share.

For now, sending good energy, peace and love. Thurston."

In a previous post on Instagram, the music star revealed he has spent "ages" working on the book and is very proud of it.

He wrote: "This book has been ages in the making, the product of intensive research and deep dives into my memories and emotions. I believe I’ve been able to capture the whirlwind of experiences that being in Sonic Youth entailed, as well as the creative communities that we found ourselves a part of, first in New York’s punk and no wave scenes, and later in the world of underground and alternative rock and the universe of music- beyond- category.

"In some ways it barely scrapes the surface, but I’m proud of it and anxious to hear what everyone thinks."