KING Charles III of England has been diagnosed with a form of cancer, Buckingham Palace has said.
The type of cancer has not been revealed – it is not prostate cancer but was discovered during his recent treatment for an enlarged prostate.
According to the Palace, the King began “regular treatments” on Monday and will postpone public duties during the treatment.
King Charles, 75, “remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible,” the statement from the Palace added.
No further details are being shared on the stage of cancer or a prognosis.
Charles informed both his sons personally about his diagnosis and the Prince of Wales was said to be in regular contact with his father.
The Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, who lives in the United States, spoke to his father and will be travelling to the UK to see him in the coming days.
The King returned to London from Sandringham in Norfolk on Monday morning and the palace says he has started treatment as an outpatient.
Although he will pause his public events, the King will continue with his constitutional role as head of state, including paperwork and private meetings.
It is understood his weekly audiences with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will continue and will be in person unless doctors advise that he limits such contact.
There is a constitutional mechanism for when the head of state is unable to carry out official duties – in that circumstance “counsellors of state” can be appointed to stand in for the monarch.
The statement from Buckingham Palace is reproduced below
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.
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 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.
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.
- Additional report courtesy of BBC
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