By Ben Kerrigan-
King Charles III announced his diagnosis of cancer to prevent speculation, according to a statement from the palace has said.
“in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”
Before becoming king, Charles served as patron to a number of cancer-related charities, and “in this capacity, His Majesty has often spoken publicly in support of cancer patients, their loved ones and the wonderful health professionals who help care for them,” according to Buckingham Palace.
News of the cancer broke on Monday as the king steps back from royal duties in order to recover.
However, constitutional duties like weekly meetings with prime minister, Rishi Sunak, will continue.
The Palace said the cancer was identified during the King’s recent hospital treatment for a benign enlarged prostate
“A separate issue of concern was noted,” the Palace says, and “subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer”.
The Palace has not said what type of cancer the King has been diagnosed with, but stressed that it is not prostrate cancer.
The news comes a week after both Kate and King Charles were discharged from a private London clinic after medical procedures. The king underwent a “corrective procedure” for an enlarged prostate, while Kate, 42, had unspecified abdominal surgery on Jan. 17.
“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised b
The UK’s prime minister, Rishi Sunak, said he is thankful that King Charles’s cancer was “caught early” as he described being left shocked and saddened by the news.
When asked how he received the news, Sunak told BBC Radio 5 Live: “Obviously, like everyone else, shocked and sad, and just all our thoughts are with him and his family. Thankfully, this has been caught early.”
He said everyone will be hoping the king “gets the treatment that he needs and makes a full recovery”.
“That’s what we’re all hoping and praying for, and I’m of course in regular contact with him and will continue to communicate with him as normal,” Sunak added.