King Charles diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace releases statement

King Charles has been diagnosed with a form of cancer, Buckingham Palace has announced.

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In a statement, the palace said: "During the King's recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.

"His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual."

The statement continued: "The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.

"His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer."

While Buckingham Palace have not confirmed the type, they have said it is not prostate cancer.

In a briefing, a Palace spokesperson said: "His Majesty has been treated for benign prostate enlargement. It was during this intervention that a separate issue of concern was noted and subsequently diagnosed as a form of cancer. This second condition will now receive appropriate treatment.

"No further details are being shared at this stage, but His Majesty is receiving expert care and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible."

The briefing note added: "His Majesty is grateful to his medical team for their expert care and swift intervention, is wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible."

Charles is believed to have notified his younger son Prince Harry about his shock health news before he announced it to the world via a Buckingham Palace statement. According to a source close to the Duke of Sussex, Harry will likely travel to the UK in the coming days to visit his father.

Prince William, meanwhile, is thought to be in regular contact with his father after being personally informed by Charles himself.

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Well wishes have since poured in across the country, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak wishing the King a "full and speedy recovery". Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer tweeted: "On behalf of the Labour Party, I wish His Majesty all the very best for his recovery. We look forward to seeing him back to swift full health," while Health and Social Care Secretary Victoria Atkins wrote on X: "My thoughts are with King Charles and the whole Royal Family."

Charles, 75, was discharged from the London Clinic a week ago after undergoing treatment on an enlarged prostate. While exact details of the King's treatment have not been disclosed, it is understood that Charles underwent a corrective procedure for the benign condition.

News of the King's health struggles first came to light on 17 January when he was diagnosed while staying at Birkhall in Scotland. He is understood to have wanted to share the news to encourage other men to get themselves checked.

LISTEN: Why King Charles and the Princess of Wales stayed at the same hospital and more about their recent health woes