King Charles Diagnosed with Cancer – Latest Updates
By Sean Coughlan
Royal Correspondent
King Charles has been diagnosed with a form of cancer, according to Buckingham Palace.
The type of cancer has not been revealed, but it was discovered during his recent treatment for an enlarged prostate. The King, aged 75, began “regular treatments” on Monday and will temporarily postpone public duties. Despite the diagnosis, he remains positive about his treatment and eagerly awaits a return to full public duty. No further details have been shared regarding the stage of cancer or the prognosis.
Treatments and Continuation of Duties
The King, who is currently an outpatient, will continue with his constitutional role as the head of state, including paperwork and private meetings. The palace has established a constitutional mechanism to appoint “counsellors of state” to temporarily assume the monarch’s official duties when necessary. Presently, Counsellors of State include Queen Camilla, Prince William, the Princess Royal, and Prince Edward. While the Duke of Sussex and the Duke of York are no longer called upon as non-working royals, Prince Harry will be travelling from the United States to the UK to meet with his father.
Public Reaction and Encouragement
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Opposition Leader Sir Keir Starmer, and Commons Speaker Sir Lyndsay Hoyle have all sent their well wishes for the King’s full and speedy recovery. US President Joe Biden has also expressed his concern and intends to speak to the King regarding his diagnosis. The King’s decision to go public about his diagnosis aligns with his previous efforts to advocate for cancer patients, their loved ones, and the healthcare professionals who care for them.
He had also previously disclosed his prostate treatment with the aim of raising awareness and promoting early diagnosis. The King’s announcement had a positive impact, encouraging more men to seek prostate checks as the NHS website reported a surge in appointments regarding prostate conditions. The Royal Society of Medicine expressed their gratitude to the King for shining a light on the indiscriminate nature of cancer and encouraged eligible individuals to undergo cancer screenings.
Conclusion
The diagnosis of King Charles’s cancer has brought public attention to the importance of early diagnosis and cancer awareness. While the King remains positive and optimistic about his treatment, the nation, along with world leaders, sends their well wishes for his recovery. Updates on the King’s health and treatments will be closely monitored, with his constitutional duties being temporarily shared with eligible royals.
