Buckingham Palace announced on Monday that King Charles III Faces Cancer. The 75-year-old monarch’s diagnosis was made during a recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue that had initially brought him to the hospital.
The Palace, in its statement, said, “During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer. This second condition will now receive appropriate treatment.”
The exact type and stage of the cancer, as well as the specifics of the treatment plan, have not been disclosed.
Despite the diagnosis, King Charles III has shown remarkable resilience. He has already begun a schedule of regular treatments and, while he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties, he will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.
The Palace further stated, “The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure. He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.”
To prevent speculation and foster public understanding, His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis. This decision reflects his commitment to transparency and his hope that his personal experience may assist others around the world who are affected by cancer.
King Charles III personally informed his children and siblings about his diagnosis, according to a royal source. Prince Harry, upon hearing the news, has confirmed plans to visit his father in the United Kingdom in the coming days.
Meanwhile, Queen Camilla will continue with her public duties, according to a palace spokesperson. This comes as a reassurance to the public that the affairs of the state will continue to run smoothly despite the King’s health concerns.
The news of the King’s cancer diagnosis follows his discharge from The London Clinic a week ago, on Jan. 29, after undergoing a procedure to treat an enlarged prostate. At the time, the Palace had shared that Charles was expected to resume public engagements after a short period of recuperation.
The initial news of Charles’ medical condition was shared by the Palace on Jan. 17, announcing that he would be hospitalized for a “corrective procedure.” At that time, the King’s condition was said to be benign, meaning non-cancerous.
The news of the King’s diagnosis has drawn messages of support from leaders around the world. U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, President Joe Biden, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and French President Emmanuel Macron have all expressed their well-wishes for the King’s speedy recovery.
President Joe Biden also shared his sentiments: “Navigating a cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship takes hope and absolute courage. Jill and I join the people of the United Kingdom in praying that His Majesty experiences a swift and full recovery.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his support, saying: “I, like Canadians across the country and people around the world, am thinking of His Majesty King Charles III as he undergoes treatment for cancer.”
In related news, the King’s daughter-in-law, Kate, the Princess of Wales, is recovering from a planned abdominal surgery conducted on Jan. 16, according to Kensington Palace. The surgery was successful, and Kate, who is married to Prince William – Charles’ son and heir to the throne – and is a mom of their three young kids, is now recovering at home.
King Charles III ascended to the throne in September 2022, following the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in British history. He was 73 years old at the time of his ascension. Despite the challenges he now faces, the King remains positive and committed to his duties, embodying the spirit of resilience and dedication that has characterized his reign thus far.
