LONDON: King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer and started receiving treatment, said a statement from Buckingham Palace on Monday.
Despite being into reign less than 18 months, he will suspend his public duties, but will not hand over his constitutional role as head of the state.
The palace said the cancer is not linked to his recent treatment for a benign prostate condition, however, it did not disclose what form of cancer the 75-year-old monarch has.
According to the palace a different issue of concern was noted during Charles’ treatment for an enlarged prostate last month and he had to spend three nights in a London hospital.
“Diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” it said in a statement.
A statement from Buckingham Palace: https://t.co/zmYuaWBKw6
📷 Samir Hussein pic.twitter.com/xypBLHHQJb
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) February 5, 2024
“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.”
The king is being treated as an outpatient, the palace said in the statement.
It added that King Charles remains positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as early as possible.
The statement further said Charles has decided to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation.
Charles became king in September 2022 when his mother Queen Elizabeth II passed away at the age of 96.
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. https://t.co/W4qe806gmv
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) February 5, 2024
The development comes as a time when his daughter-in-law Kate, Princess of Wales, recovers from abdominal surgery.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in his tweet wished king Charles a full and speedy recovery.
