King Charles diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace says ...

5 Feb 2024

CBC.ca

World

King Charles III has been diagnosed with a form of cancer and has begun treatment, Buckingham Palace says.

Palace says it's not related to his recent treatment for a benign prostate condition

The Associated Press

· Posted: Feb 05, 2024 1:15 PM EST | Last Updated: 1 hour ago

King Charles leaves the London Clinic, in London, on Jan. 29. He had been staying at the hospital for prostate surgery. Buckingham Palace announced Monday that the King had been diagnosed with cancer and had begun treatment. (Adrian Dennis/AFP/Getty Images)

King Charles III has been diagnosed with a form of cancer and has begun treatment, Buckingham Palace said Monday. Less than 18 months into his reign, he will suspend public duties but will continue with state business, and won't be handing over his constitutional roles as head of state.

The palace said the cancer is not related to the King's recent treatment for a benign prostate condition. It did not say what form of cancer the 75-year-old monarch has.

The palace said "a separate issue of concern was noted" during Charles's treatment for an enlarged prostate last month.

"Diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer," it said.

"His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties," the palace said. "Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual."

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It said Charles "remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible."

The palace added that the King "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."

Charles became King in September 2022 when his mother Queen Elizabeth II died at the age of 96.

King Charles waves as he leaves the London Clinic on Jan. 29 with Queen Camilla. He spent three nights at the hospital where he underwent a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate. (Daniel Leal/AFP/Getty Images)

News of the King's diagnosis comes as his daughter-in-law Catherine, Princess of Wales, recovers from abdominal surgery that saw her hospitalized for about two weeks.

U.K. political leaders sent messages of support. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak tweeted: "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."

Charles departed from royal tradition with his openness about his prostate condition. For centuries Britain's royal family remained tight-lipped about health matters.

Canada's Gov. Gen. General Mary Simon said the King is "leading by example" and news of his diagnosis "will hopefully encourage and motivate those who are struggling with their own treatment."

"We admire The King's strength and determination as he confronts this disease," she said.