King Charles III Diagnosed with Cancer and Begins Treatment
Britain’s King Charles III has been diagnosed with a form of cancer and has begun treatment, Buckingham Palace said Monday.
King Charles III's Cancer Diagnosis
Britain's King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer and has started receiving treatment, according to Buckingham Palace. The 75-year-old monarch, who has been on the throne for less than 18 months, will suspend public engagements but will continue with state business. He will also retain his constitutional roles as head of state.
The palace did not disclose the specific type of cancer, but confirmed that it is not related to his recent treatment for a benign prostate condition. During Charles' treatment for an enlarged prostate last month, a separate issue of concern was identified, which led to the diagnosis of cancer.
Treatment and Recovery
The palace stated that King Charles III has started a schedule of regular treatments and has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. However, he will continue to undertake state business and official paperwork as usual. The king is being treated as an outpatient. Despite the diagnosis, Charles remains positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.
The palace emphasized that Charles chose to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and to provide support and understanding to all those affected by cancer around the world.
Impact on the Royal Family
King Charles III's cancer diagnosis comes at a time when other members of the royal family are also facing health challenges. His daughter-in-law, Kate, Princess of Wales, is currently recovering from abdominal surgery and is taking a break from royal duties. Prince William, who is next in line to the throne, has been taking time off to care for their children. Additionally, Prince Harry, who stepped back from royal duties in 2020, has expressed his support for his father and will be traveling to the U.K. to see him.
The royal family's health issues, combined with Prince Harry's self-exile to California and Prince Andrew's reduced public presence due to his association with Jeffrey Epstein, pose a challenge to the monarchy's slimmed-down approach to public duties. The royal "Firm" risks becoming overstretched.
