The sources quoted by the Times -- who say they cannot be identified because Jobs has not authorized them to speak -- claim the executive had a surgery earlier this year, designed to remedy a problem that was producing the weight loss. Jobs is said to have had nutritional concerns following his original cancer surgery, which could itself have produced low energy and weight loss.

Analysts say that investors are worried about Jobs' condition, as he is not only the public face of Apple but largely credited with the company's financial rebirth, having imposed his influence on many facets. Recent stock slides are, however, said to mainly be connected to a predicted decline in gross margins.