Buckingham Palace has announced that King Charles has received a cancer diagnosis. This diagnosis was not related to prostate cancer but came to light during his treatment for an enlarged prostate. The specific type of cancer has not been disclosed, but the King has already commenced “regular treatments” as of yesterday, according to a statement from the palace.
Despite the diagnosis, Buckingham Palace has conveyed that the King is maintaining a wholly optimistic outlook regarding his treatment and is eager to resume his full public duties at the earliest opportunity. As a result, he will be postponing his scheduled public appearances, with expectations that other prominent members of the royal family will fill in during his absence. No additional information about the cancer’s stage or expected prognosis has been provided.
The King 75, returned to London from Sandringham in Norfolk yesterday morning and has begun his treatment on an outpatient basis. While he will temporarily halt his public engagements, he plans to continue fulfilling his duties as the head of state, which includes handling paperwork and conducting private meetings.
The King was spotted attending a church service in Sandringham on Sunday, where he greeted onlookers. He underwent a procedure for his prostate at a private hospital in London over a week ago. The decision to publicize his prostate treatment was part of an effort to promote prostate health checks among men, a move the palace stated had pleased the King by significantly raising public awareness on the subject. This initiative led to an increase in inquiries about prostate conditions on the NHS website.
Statistically, the likelihood of developing cancer increases with age. In the UK, data shows that annually, over a third (36%) of new cancer diagnoses occur in individuals aged 75 and above.