Buckingham Palace has confirmed that Britain’s King Charles has been diagnosed with a form of cancer, prompting him to step back from his public-facing duties temporarily. While the specific type of cancer has not been disclosed, the 75-year-old monarch has commenced regular treatments. Despite this health setback, he remains committed to managing state affairs and official paperwork as usual, as stated by the Palace.

The announcement follows the recent hospitalisation of King Charles, during which he underwent a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate. Subsequent tests revealed the presence of cancer, although a royal source has clarified that it is not prostate cancer. The decision to share these details contrasts with the royal family’s customary stance on medical matters, underscoring Charles’s desire to contribute to public awareness and understanding of cancer.

With the announcement, Queen Camilla marked World Cancer Day by inaugurating Maggie’s Royal Free, a new cancer support centre at the Royal Free Hospital in the United Kingdom. The facility aims to raise awareness and offer expert care and support free of charge. Messages of support pour in from politicians across the UK, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Keir Starmer, extending well wishes to King Charles for a speedy recovery.