Britain’s King Charles, 75, has been diagnosed with a form of cancer and will postpone his public duties while he undergoes treatment, Buckingham Palace said on Monday, adding that he remains “totally positive” after the scare with less than 18 months left in his reign .
Charles, who became king in September 2022 following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth, has already begun a series of treatments, the palace said, saying he was eager to return to full-time duties as soon as possible.
The cancer discovery comes after the king spent three nights in hospital last month, where he underwent surgery for an enlarged prostate.
The palace said another worrying problem was detected during his hospitalization, without providing details beyond saying that tests revealed the king had a “type of cancer.”
“No further details are being shared at this stage other than confirmation that His Majesty does not have prostate cancer,” the palace said.
“Her Majesty began a regular treatment program on Monday, during which doctors advised her to postpone her public duties,” the palace said.
“During this period, Her Majesty will continue to deal with state affairs and official documents as usual.”
Charles will continue to meet Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Prince Harry, King Charles’s youngest son, has spoken to his father about his cancer diagnosis and will travel to the UK to visit him in the coming days, a source close to the prince said.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak sent his best wishes to the King via social media platform X.
“I have no doubt he will be back to full strength in a short time and I know the whole country wants him to be well,” he said.
On Sunday, the king gave no indication of his diagnosis as he was photographed smiling and waving to onlookers while attending a church service.
While royals typically keep a low profile about their health as they consider it a private matter, Charles has been open about his recent treatment.
“Her Majesty has chosen to share her diagnosis to avoid speculation and in the hope that it will help raise public understanding for all those around the world affected by cancer,” Buckingham Palace said.
The leaders of Australia and Canada, where Charles is also head of state, have expressed their wishes and hopes that the king will recover quickly, while US President Joe Biden has said he is concerned about the news and plans to call Charles later.
“Dealing with cancer diagnosis, treatment and survivorship requires hope and absolute courage,” Biden said.
“Jill and I join the people of the United Kingdom in praying for Her Majesty to make a speedy and full recovery.”
Source: Terra
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