King Charles has been diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace has revealed.
In a statement on Monday, it was revealed that doctors identified a separate issue during his recent treatment for prostate enlargement.
While the specific type of cancer remains undisclosed, the palace has confirmed that the King, 75, initiated “regular treatments” on Monday.
Despite the health setback, the King maintains a positive outlook on his treatment and eagerly anticipates resuming full public duties at the earliest opportunity, as outlined in the statement.
Consequently, the monarch will temporarily suspend public engagements, with other senior royals expected to step in on his behalf during the treatment period.
Details regarding the cancer’s stage or prognosis are being withheld, maintaining a level of privacy for the monarch.
Following his return to London from Sandringham in Norfolk on Monday morning, the King has initiated outpatient treatment, ensuring continuity in his constitutional role as the head of state.
This includes attending to paperwork and conducting private meetings, even though public events will be put on hold.
The King, who had a prostate procedure at a private London hospital over a week ago, had voluntarily shared information about his prostate treatment to encourage men to undergo prostate checks.
His public stance on the matter resulted in increased awareness, with the NHS website noting a surge in enquiries related to prostate conditions.
Age-related statistics in the UK indicate that over a third (36%) of new cancer cases annually are reported in individuals aged 75 and over, underscoring the importance of ongoing health vigilance, even for public figures like The King.