75-Year-Old King Charles Diagnosed With Cancer, Palace Announces

Buckingham Palace recently announced that King Charles has officially been diagnosed with cancer. The specific type has not been specified, though BBC reports that it is not prostate cancer, although Charles had recently undergone a procedure for an enlarged prostate.

In light of this diagnosis, King Charles, 75, has canceled all future planned engagements for now. That time will instead be filled with “regular treatments,” which have already begun, according to a palace statement issued on Monday.

Buckingham Palace announces that King Charles has been diagnosed with cancer

“During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted,” said Buckingham Palace in its Monday statement. “Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.”

The statement continues, “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.”

It concludes, “The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure. He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible,” the statement added. “His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”

A new grim addition to a series of health concerns

King Charles’s cancer diagnosis follows in the wake of his hospitalization to undergo surgery addressing an enlarged prostate. Royal specialists noted it is unusual for the palace to be so forthcoming with health updates. Traditionally, those are reserved for whenever a health concern will affect the royal family member’s public appointment schedule. The palace’s statement emphasized a plan to normalize medical treatments like Charles’s.

Buckingham Palace: ‘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.’ pic.twitter.com/U8ZclcGsUy

— Majesty Magazine & Joe Little (@MajestyMagazine) February 5, 2024

“In common with thousands of men each year, the King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate,” read the palace’s previous statement leading up to the king’s surgery. “His Majesty’s condition is benign, and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure.”

That announcement came just hours after it was revealed that Kate Middleton, now styled Princess Catherine, was hospitalized for severe abdominal pain that also required surgical intervention; she is not expected to return to her public appointments until after Easter.