King Charles III Announces Cancer Diagnosis

On Monday, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer and will be suspending all public engagements to undergo treatment.

The king, 75, was discharged from a London hospital following a procedure to treat an enlarged prostate. The palace did not specify what type of cancer he has, though an official confirmed that it is not prostate.

“During the king’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted,” the palace stated. “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.”

Charles will continue to carry out other duties, including his weekly meetings with the prime minister and daily paperwork. There are currently no plans to appoint anyone to act in his place, according to palace officials.

The palace said that the king “remains wholly positive about his treatment.” He has generally been in good health since taking the throne in September 2022.

Charles’ disclosure of his prostate enlargement and cancer diagnosis is unusual for a royal member, as they are known to keep details about their health private. The palace noted that he chose to make the announcement “to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”

Queen Camilla will continue with her full program of official engagements while her husband undergoes treatment.

It was recently revealed that Charles has his servants iron his shoelaces every day.