Buckingham Palace has officially confirmed that King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer.
While the specific type of cancer has not been disclosed, it has been clarified that it is not prostate cancer, even though it was discovered during recent treatment for an enlarged prostate.
A statement from the Palace read: "During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer."
Royal Engagements Postponed, But King Charles to Maintain His Role
In light of this diagnosis, the 75-year-old Monarch has opted to postpone his public engagements.
Fellow members of the royal family will step in to fulfill his duties during this period. However, it is crucial to note that Buckingham Palace has emphasized that King Charles III will continue to serve in his capacity as the head of state for the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth Realms, including Australia.
"His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual," Buckingham Palace added.
The King's Cancer: What We Know So Far
Although Buckingham Palace has chosen not to disclose the specific cancer type afflicting King Charles, it has definitively ruled out prostate cancer. This revelation comes despite the cancer's discovery during the recent treatment for his enlarged prostate.
Notably, King Charles celebrated his 75th birthday in November of the previous year.
While the palace has remained discreet regarding the details of his cancer treatment plan, it has conveyed that the King will now undergo "a schedule of regular treatments." These treatments may encompass chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or drug therapies, depending on the recommendations of medical experts, per The Telegraph.
Royal Family Reaction: Prince Harry's Return
Understanding the gravity of the situation, King Charles III personally informed his sons, Princes William and Harry, as well as Princes Edward and Andrew and Princess Anne about his diagnosis, The Sun reports.
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has confirmed his imminent journey to the UK in the coming days to provide support to his father during this challenging period. He is expected to land in London on Tuesday (February 6).
It is expected that Prince Harry's wife, Meghan Markle, will remain at their Montecito, California residence with their children, four-year-old Archie and two-year-old Lilibet.
Queen Camilla's Supportive Role
In a significant show of unity, King Charles III attended church with Queen Camilla on Sunday, marking his first public appearance since his recent hospital stay. Subsequently, on Monday, the King traveled from his residence in Sandringham, located in Norfolk in England's eastern region, to London, where he will commence outpatient treatment.
The Sun has reported that Queen Camilla is gearing up to play a pivotal role in supporting her husband throughout his treatment while continuing to fulfill her extensive roster of public duties.
King Charles Remains "Wholly Positive"
In a statement released by Buckingham Palace, it was disclosed that during the King's recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, "a separate issue of concern was noted." Subsequent diagnostic tests confirmed the presence of a form of cancer.
Despite these developments, King Charles has embarked on a schedule of regular treatments, with doctors advising him to temporarily postpone public-facing duties. However, the King will continue to manage state business and official paperwork as usual.
The palace asserts that King Charles remains "wholly positive" about his treatment and eagerly anticipates his return to full public duty as soon as possible.
Early Detection Acknowledged by UK Prime Minister
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his gratitude for the early detection of King Charles's cancer, describing himself as shocked and saddened by the news. Sunak conveyed that he, like the nation, hopes for the King to receive the necessary treatment and make a full recovery.
Sunak also added that the cancer was "caught early", telling BBC Radio 5 Live: "Obviously, like everyone else, shocked and sad, and just all our thoughts are with him and his family. Thankfully, this has been caught early."
He assured that he will maintain regular contact with King Charles throughout this period, upholding open lines of communication during this challenging time.
