News
King Charles says he chose to share his cancer diagnosis to ‘prevent speculation’ from the public
He has addressed his reasons in a statement.
Emily Sergeant -
6th February 2024 
King Charles III says he has chosen to share his cancer diagnosis in a bid to “prevent speculation” from the public.
It comes after Buckingham Palace announced in a formal statement yesterday evening that the King had been diagnosed with “a form of cancer” and that His Majesty has already begun a “schedule of regular treatments”.
The form of cancer the King has been diagnosed is yet to be revealed, but due to doctors’ advice, he has postponed all public-facing duties for the foreseeable.
While it is unclear at this point whether the form of cancer will be confirmed to the public, what we do know is that it is not prostate cancer, despite the King having recently undergone a procedure for benign prostate enlargement within the last couple of weeks.
The statement released by Buckingham Palace has also assured the public that the King remains “wholly positive” about his treatment.
The King’s reasoning behind his decision to share his cancer diagnosis with the public has been attributed to “avoiding speculation” and a hope that it may “assist public understanding” for people who are affected by cancer globally.
Buckingham Palace’s statement, on behalf of the King and The Royal Family, reads in full: “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.”
Read more:
- King Charles III and Queen Consort make rare visit to Greater Manchester
- ‘Pioneering’ new cancer research study launched in Manchester in memory of Girls Aloud’s Sarah Harding
- Coins with King Charles III’s face on have officially entered circulation
King Charles III became king on 8 September 2022 following the death of his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, and became the oldest person to accede to the British throne at age 73, after having been the longest-serving heir apparent and Prince of Wales in British history.
His coronation took place at Westminster Abbey on 6 May 2023.
Featured Image – Samir Hussein (via The Royal Family)
