King Charles III Diagnosed with Cancer
“His majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”
Tuesday 06 February 2024 | 09:39
King Charles III at Westminster Abbey on May 6, 2023. Photo: AP / Alastair Grant
Reports from Buckingham Palace has confirmed that King Charles has been diagnosed with a form of cancer.
The type of cancer has not been revealed - it is not prostate cancer but was discovered during his recent treatment for an enlarged prostate.
The King began "regular treatments" on Monday and will postpone public duties during the treatment, the Palace said.
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The King, 75, "remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible," it added.
No further details are being shared on the stage of cancer or a prognosis.
In a statement, Buckingham Palace 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."
"His majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties."
King Charles III at Westminster Abbey on May 6, 2023. Photo: AP / Alastair Grant
“Throughout this period, his majesty will continue to undertake state business and official paperwork as usual."
"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."
“His majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”
Charles informed both his sons personally about his diagnosis and the Prince of Wales was said to be in regular contact with his father.
The Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, who lives in the United States, spoke to his father and will be travelling to the UK to see him in the coming days.
The King returned to London from Sandringham in Norfolk on Monday morning and the palace says he has started treatment as an outpatient.
Although he will pause his public events, the King will continue with his constitutional role as head of state, including paperwork and private meetings.
There is a constitutional mechanism for when the head of state is unable to carry out official duties - in that circumstance "counsellors of state" can be appointed to stand in for the monarch.
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