LONDON, UK – Prime Minister Rishi Sunak revealed on Tuesday that King Charles III’s cancer was detected early. The 75-year-old monarch’s diagnosis was made public just the day before, sparking an outpouring of support from the British public and leaders around the world.
Prince Harry, Charles’ son, immediately made plans to return home to be with his father, while Prince William, the heir to the throne, prepared to take on some of the king’s public responsibilities. The news came as a shock to many, as it marks a new health crisis for the royal family, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II just 18 months ago.
Buckingham Palace announced that a “form of cancer” was found in Charles while he was undergoing a hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement. The exact type and stage of the cancer were not disclosed. Despite the diagnosis, the palace assured that the king remains “wholly positive” and will continue to carry out state business and official paperwork as usual, but will have to postpone public engagements.
This development represents a departure from the past, when the monarch’s health issues were often kept private. The palace stated that Charles wanted to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and to provide understanding to those affected by cancer worldwide.
The news prompted an outpouring of support from various leaders, including President Joe Biden, who wished the king a swift recovery. The Archbishop of Canterbury, who presided over Charles’ coronation just nine months ago, also sent his well-wishes to the monarch.
The king’s diagnosis comes shortly after both he and his daughter-in-law, Princess Kate, underwent medical procedures. While Charles had a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate, Kate had abdominal surgery for a noncancerous condition. As Charles focuses on his treatment, his eldest son is expected to step in to fulfill some of his duties.
The announcement of Charles’ cancer diagnosis also comes at a time when his relationship with his son Harry is reported to be strained, following Harry and his wife Meghan’s decision to step back from their roles as senior members of the royal family in 2020.
In light of the news, British tabloids reported that Harry was due to return to the UK to be with his father. Despite any reported strains, Harry is said to be traveling to see Charles in the coming days. This latest development adds another layer of complexity to the royal family dynamics.