LONDON. Buckingham Palace announced on Monday that Britain’s King Charles III, aged 75, has been diagnosed with cancer and has initiated treatment. Less than 18 months into his reign, the monarch will temporarily suspend public engagements while continuing with state affairs. The palace clarified that he will not relinquish his constitutional roles as head of state.
The palace did not disclose the specific type of cancer affecting the king but emphasized it is unrelated to his recent treatment for a benign prostate condition. During the treatment for an enlarged prostate last month, a separate health concern was noted, leading to the current schedule of regular treatments.
“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 stated. “Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.”
The king is undergoing outpatient treatment, and despite the health setback, the palace reported that Charles, who has generally enjoyed good health, “remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.”
In a rare move, the palace revealed that the king chose to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and to assist in public understanding of cancer’s impact worldwide.
Charles ascended to the throne in September 2022 following the passing of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned for 70 years until the age of 96.
News of King Charles III’s diagnosis comes amid Princess Kate’s recovery from abdominal surgery, which saw her hospitalized for about two weeks. Prince William, heir to the throne, is set to preside over upcoming engagements despite his wife’s ongoing break from royal duties.
King Charles III had aimed to lead a slimmed-down monarchy, but with both him and Princess Kate temporarily sidelined, Prince Harry in self-exile in California, and Prince Andrew largely out of public view, the royal “Firm” faces potential challenges in fulfilling its ceremonial public duties.
The king personally informed his children, Prince William and Prince Harry, as well as his siblings Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward, about his health. Prince Harry, who left royal duties in 2020, is reportedly planning to travel to the U.K. to visit his father.
U.K. political leaders, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and U.S. President Joe Biden sent messages of support, expressing wishes for a full and speedy recovery.
Charles’s openness about his prostate condition marked a departure from royal tradition, where health matters were historically kept private. The king’s decision to share his cancer diagnosis was applauded by advocates, emphasizing the widespread impact of cancer and the importance of open dialogue.
Pat Price, founder of the Catch Up With Cancer campaign, highlighted the collective concern for the king’s health, emphasizing that the king’s openness serves as a reminder of the prevalence of cancer affecting millions worldwide.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
