Photo copyright: Reuters
Photo caption,
This photo was taken on January 29 after the king left the hospital
5 February 2024, 18:14 GMT
Updated 33 minutes ago
Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer.
It is not prostate cancer, but it was discovered during recent treatment he was undergoing for prostate adenoma.
The palace statement gave no other details, but said the king began undergoing “appropriate treatment” on Monday.
Buckingham Palace also noted that the king is “generally positive about his treatment and expects to return to full public activity as soon as possible.”
At the same time, in the near future he will be less likely to attend public events; these responsibilities will be taken over by other senior members of the royal family during the course of treatment. This status is currently held by his wife, Queen Camilla, son, Prince William, brother, Prince Edward, and sister, Princess Anne.
Charles III will still continue to fulfill his constitutional role as head of state, including handling government documents and private meetings.
The BBC has learned that Prince Harry, now living in California, has spoken to his father and will be visiting the UK in the coming days.
The 75-year-old king returned to London from Sandringham Palace in Norfolk on Monday morning. The official statement also states that he will undergo treatment as an outpatient.
Photo credit: Buckingham Palace
Photo caption,
Buckingham Palace’s statement was accompanied by this photo of the king
On Sunday, the king attended the service at Sandringham and greeted the assembled crowd.
More than a week ago, the king underwent prostate surgery in a private London clinic.
Charles III decided to go public with his treatment to encourage more men to get tested.
He was reportedly pleased by the opportunity to raise public awareness of this medical problem. Following his announcement, the NHS website saw a sharp increase in queries about prostate problems and diseases.
The likelihood of developing many types of cancer increases with age. In Britain, on average, more than a third (36%) of new cancer cases are diagnosed in people aged over 75.
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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the whole country wishes the king a speedy recovery.
On his social media account X, he wrote that “he has no doubt that he will make a full recovery in the very near future.”
Scottish First Minister Hamza Yousaf also wished Charles III a speedy recovery: “I also pray for Her Majesty the Queen and other members of the royal family at this difficult time for them,” he said.
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2024-02-05 18:24:04
