King Charles III Receives Cancer Diagnosis, Initiates Treatment
Buckingham Palace has confirmed that King Charles III has been diagnosed with a form of cancer, a revelation that surfaced during recent treatment for an enlarged prostate. The specific type of cancer has not been disclosed, excluding prostate cancer.
Commencing “regular treatments” on Monday, the 75-year-old monarch will temporarily withdraw from public duties during this period, as stated by the Palace. Despite the health setback, King Charles III maintains a positive outlook on his treatment and anticipates a swift return to full public duty.
Details concerning the cancer stage or prognosis remain undisclosed. The King personally informed his sons of the diagnosis, with the Prince of Wales maintaining regular contact. Prince Harry, residing in the United States, is set to travel to the UK in the coming days to be with his father.
Returning to London from Sandringham on Monday, the King has begun outpatient treatment. While public events will be paused, he will continue his constitutional role as head of state, including paperwork and private meetings. Weekly audiences with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will persist unless advised otherwise by medical professionals.
In case of the monarch’s inability to carry out official duties, counsellors of state can be appointed. Presently, individuals such as Queen Camilla, Prince William, the Princess Royal, and Prince Edward are eligible for such a role. Prince Harry and the Duke of York, as non-working royals, are no longer considered.
The King’s recent church appearance in Sandringham occurred on Sunday, where he interacted with the crowd and walked for about 10 minutes. A prostate procedure was conducted over a week ago, initially described as treatment for a “benign” condition. Subsequently, during this intervention, a separate cancer issue was discovered.
King Charles III’s decision to publicly address his cancer treatment is attributed to his past patronage of cancer-related charities. He previously advocated for prostate checks, resulting in increased awareness. The Royal Society of Medicine expressed gratitude for the King’s openness and encouraged the public to undergo cancer screenings.
The news of the King’s diagnosis prompted well-wishes from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, and Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle. US President Joe Biden expressed concern and pledged to speak with the King, drawing on his own experiences with cancer-related losses.
Charles ascended to the throne in September 2022 following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, with his coronation occurring in May the following year. Planned royal visits to Canada in May and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in October await confirmation, with no specified date for the King’s return to full public duties.
Royal Health Update: King Charles Diagnosed with Cancer, Full Buckingham Palace Statement
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