King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace confirmed on Monday.
In a statement on its website, the Palace said that “a separate issue of concern” had been noted during the King’s recent procedure for a benign prostate enlargement. “Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” the statement continued.
“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,” the Palace said. “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 concluded, “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.”
The 75-year-old was hospitalized for his prostate procedure at the same time that his daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, underwent abdominal surgery due to an undisclosed medical condition. He was seen for the first time in public after his procedure on Sunday, when he went to church with wife Camilla Parker Bowles.
According to the news agency PA Media, Prince Harry has been made aware of his father’s diagnosis and will travel to the U.K. to visit him in the coming days.
King Charles acceded to the U.K. throne following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in September 2022. She reigned for 70 years, the longest of any British monarch.