On February 5, Buckingham Palace made a significant revelation about the health of King Charles III. The 75-year-old monarch has recently been diagnosed with cancer.

This disclosure followed shortly after the King had undergone a procedure to treat an enlarged prostate, a condition prevalent in men of his age. The cancer diagnosis, however, is unrelated to his prostate condition and was detected during regular health screenings.

The exact type of cancer the King has been diagnosed with has not been revealed, underlining that even public figures like the monarch have the right to keep their health-related matters private.

According to the Palace, King Charles started his regular treatment sessions as an outpatient on Monday. The King remains hopeful about his recovery and continues to perform his duties as the head of state despite the health challenge. Yet, some adjustments have been made to his public engagement schedule.

Given his current health status, the King has chosen to delay his public engagements. As a result, senior members of the royal family, such as Queen Consort Camilla, Prince William, Princess Anne, and Prince Edward, will step up to undertake these responsibilities when required, ensuring the ongoing fulfillment of royal duties and engagements.

King Charles notified his sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, of his health situation personally. Prince Harry, who is presently living in the United States, has been in constant contact with his father since the public announcement of the diagnosis. On Tuesday, February 6, Harry flew to the UK to visit his father, demonstrating the strong family bond despite physical separation and disagreements.

The diagnosis of King Charles III has elicited a wave of public support and wishes for his recovery from around the world. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has shared his hope for a “full and speedy recovery” for the King, a sentiment echoed by numerous individuals both within and outside the United Kingdom.

Buckingham Palace has stated explicitly that additional information about the King’s health, such as the cancer stage or a detailed prognosis, will not be made public, respecting the often-sought privacy in these personal matters.