King Charles has been diagnosed with an unspecified form of cancer, Buckingham Palace announced. The diagnosis was made during recent treatment for an enlarged prostate. The 75-year-old monarch has begun regular treatments and will pause public duties during this time. However, he remains positive about his recovery and aims to return to full duties soon.
The Palace has not disclosed details about the stage of cancer or the prognosis. King Charles informed his sons, with Prince Harry expected to travel to the UK shortly. Despite the diagnosis, the King will continue with essential constitutional duties, including meetings with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, unless advised otherwise by doctors.
King Charles chose to go public with his diagnosis to raise awareness, particularly as a patron of cancer-related charities. The Royal Society of Medicine praised the King’s openness, encouraging the public to participate in cancer screenings.
Global leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, have expressed their support and wished the King a speedy recovery. The Palace has yet to confirm whether the King’s scheduled tours to Canada and the Commonwealth will proceed as planned.