Buckingham Palace revealed on Monday that King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer, following a recent hospital visit initially related to his prostate. The diagnosis has prompted the king to adjust his royal duties as he begins treatment.
The nature of the cancer, discovered outside the prostate area, remains unspecified, but it comes after the 75-year-old monarch was treated for an enlarged prostate—an issue declared noncancerous by his medical team. During this procedure, doctors identified a separate health concern, leading to further tests and the cancer diagnosis.
In response, King Charles has embarked on a regimen of regular treatments, stepping back from public engagements while continuing his official duties behind the scenes. The palace’s statement highlighted the king’s proactive approach to his health and his openness about the diagnosis, aimed at curtailing speculation and contributing to broader public awareness and understanding of cancer.
Having ascended to the throne less than a year and a half ago, after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, Charles’s health has generally been perceived as robust. His medical history includes the removal of a noncancerous growth from his face in 2008.
Catherine, Princess of Wales, visits the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust in Bath, England, on May 16, 2023. Kensington Palace said Wednesday that she has had abdominal surgery and will be in hospital for about two weeks. (Kin Cheung/Reuters)
This health update coincides with other royal family news, including the Princess of Wales’s recent recovery from abdominal surgery at the same private clinic in London. Prince William, the heir apparent, is slated to resume his royal responsibilities after a brief hiatus to support his wife, Kate.
The royal family, including William and Prince Harry, who resides in the U.S. with his wife Meghan after stepping back from senior royal duties, have been personally informed by the king about his health condition. Prince Harry plans to visit his father in the UK shortly.
The news has drawn messages of support from global figures, including British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and U.S. President Joe Biden, both of whom have extended their well-wishes for a swift recovery. President Biden, sharing a personal connection to cancer through the loss of his son Beau, expressed solidarity and hope for the king’s journey through treatment.
