Barbara Walters reveals she once had lumpectomy

NEW YORK (KABC) -- ABC News veteran Barbara Walters is used to sharing the stories of others - but she recently told a personal tale about a cancer scare.

Walters opened up during a speech at the Breast Cancer Research Foundation's annual Symposium and Awards Luncheon in New York on Thursday. She was being honored with the Sandra Taub Humanitarian Award for her contributions to women's health.

She said she discovered a small lump in her breast five years ago and had a lumpectomy. Walters admitted there were other choices, but she chose a lumpectomy - something made possible thanks to advanced research.

She went on to say she remembers when lumpectomies were not even available.

"Research made my treatment possible," she said.

Walters recently retired form "The View" but remains active with ABC News and other projects.

ABC News contributed to this report.