King Charles III Diagnosed with Cancer, Buckingham Palace Announces

King Charles III, aged 75, has been diagnosed with cancer, as announced by Buckingham Palace on Monday.

“In the course of His Majesty’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate concern was identified,” the palace stated in an emailed announcement. “Subsequent diagnostic tests have revealed a form of cancer.”

The statement did not specify the stage of the cancer discovered. However, Buckingham Palace clarified separately that Charles does not have prostate cancer.

The news follows a recent medical development involving both Kate and King Charles. Last week, they were discharged from a private London clinic after undergoing medical procedures. The king underwent a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate, while Kate, aged 42, had unspecified abdominal surgery on January 17.

“His Majesty has now commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties,” the statement added.

The palace emphasised that Charles decided to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and to assist public understanding, particularly for those affected by cancer worldwide.

Charles expressed gratitude for the swift intervention of his medical team and their expert care, according to Buckingham Palace.

Further details regarding his treatment or prognosis are not being disclosed, although the king returned to London on Monday to initiate outpatient treatment.

Charles ascended the throne last May following a coronation ceremony held months after the passing of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in September 2022. Elizabeth, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch with 70 years on the throne, passed away at the age of 96.

While Kate is still in recovery, her husband, Prince William, is expected to resume his royal duties by attending the London’s Air Ambulance Charity Gala Dinner on Wednesday.

Kensington Palace previously indicated that the Princess of Wales is unlikely to resume her royal duties before Easter, on March 31. No specific date has been set for the king’s return to duties.

Acknowledging that many of the king’s planned engagements will need to be postponed or canceled, Buckingham Palace expressed advance apologies to anyone inconvenienced. Queen Camilla, Charles’ wife, will continue with her full public duties during his treatment period.