Buckingham Palace has announced that King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer.
It comes after His Majesty was treated for an enlarged prostate last week, with the news coming as part of the diagnostic tests he received at the time.
A new portrait of The King. (Buckingham Palace/Samir Hussein)
The Palace has not confirmed which type of cancer The King has.
The full statement from Buckingham Palace reads as follows: ‘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 and Queen attended every day of Royal Ascot this year. (Royal Family).
The Palace adds how ‘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.’
It has been reported that Charles personally told his siblings and children about the diagnosis. It is reported that The Duke of Sussex will be travelling back to the UK to see his father.
Last week, The Queen said The King was ‘doing his best’ following his release from hospital as she opened Maggie’s Royal Free – a cancer support centre in London.
