Buckingham Palace Announces King Charles’ Cancer Diagnosis, Public Duties Deferred

Britain’s King Charles received a diagnosis of a form of cancer, leading to the postponement of his public-facing duties, as confirmed by Buckingham Palace in a statement issued on Monday.

The 75-year-old monarch had recently spent three nights in the hospital for a corrective procedure addressing an enlarged prostate. During this hospitalization, a separate health concern was identified, later diagnosed as a form of cancer.

The palace’s statement reads, “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.”

To address this health challenge, King Charles has initiated a schedule of regular treatments, prompting doctors’ advice to temporarily defer public-facing duties. Despite this, he will continue to engage in State business and manage official paperwork throughout the treatment period.

The decision to disclose the diagnosis was made to prevent speculation and to contribute to public awareness, particularly for those globally impacted by cancer, according to The Buckingham Palace statement.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his well-wishes for King Charles’s swift recovery, stating, “Wishing His Majesty a full and speedy recovery. I have no doubt he’ll be back to full strength in no time, and I know the whole country will be wishing him well,” in a social media post on X.

Opposition Labour Party leader Keir Starmer also conveyed best wishes, saying, “On behalf of the Labour Party, I wish His Majesty all the very best for his recovery. We look forward to seeing him back to swift full health.”