According to the BBC, King Charles III has been diagnosed with a type of cancer that is not prostate cancer. The discovery was made during a treatment for prostate enlargement he underwent recently. Though the specific type of cancer has not been disclosed, the palace stated that the king commenced "regular treatments" on Monday.
Buckingham Palace conveyed that the king remains "entirely positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public service as soon as possible."
His public duties have been postponed following the announcement, and it is anticipated that other senior members of the royal family will step in during his treatment period. The palace has not shared further details about the stage of the illness.
Despite halting public engagements, the 75-year-old monarch will continue to fulfill his constitutional role as head of state. He was seen on Sunday at Sandringham attending a service, where he waved to the crowd.
Over a week ago, King Charles III underwent a prostate surgery at a private hospital in London. The palace reported that the king decided to publicize his treatment for the prostate in the hopes of encouraging more men to get prostate examinations.
Prince Harry to Return Home
Sky News reported that, after speaking with his father, King Charles III’s son, Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, will be traveling to the UK to visit His Majesty.
"The prince indeed spoke with his father about his diagnosis. He will be traveling to the United Kingdom in the coming days to visit His Majesty," the publication quoted their source.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak Wishes Speedy Recovery
In response to the news, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his wishes for the king's full and swift recovery.
"There is no doubt in my mind that he will soon be back to his full strength, and I believe that the entire nation is wishing him all the best," he stated in a post shared on his social media.
U.S. President
Joe Biden also responded, promising to soon call the British monarch to express his support.
"I am concerned for him. I will speak to him, God willing," he said to reporters.
The Red Box and the Audience
Meanwhile, the Sky News royal correspondent Laura Bundock reported that King Charles III will continue to hold his weekly audience with the prime minister.
Bundock also mentioned that the king will not appoint any state councilors and will continue his private duties as part of his office.