King Charles III Diagnosed With Cancer

King Charles III is facing a health battle.

In a statement shared Feb. 5, Buckingham Palace announced the royal has been diagnosed with cancer.

"During The King's recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted," the statement read. "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."

They noted, "Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual. The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure. He remains wholly positive 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," the statement concluded, "and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer."

The announcement comes just hours after the monarch was seen for the first time following his release from the London Clinic. With Queen Camilla by his side, the royal couple greeted well-wishers as they attended a service at the Church of St Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham estate Feb. 4. 

In mid-January, Charles was admitted to the hospital for a corrective procedure. He was treated at the same institution as daughter-in-law Kate Middleton, who underwent preplanned surgery. "In common with thousands of men each year," a statement from Buckingham Palace noted Jan. 17, "The King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate."

By Jan. 29, the royal had been released from hospital, but, according to a statement, any forthcoming public engagements had been rescheduled "to allow for a period of private recuperation."

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Keep reading for more updates on the royal family.

While King Charles III was in the hospital for his benign prostate enlargement procedure, the royal family member was diagnosed with 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," Buckingham Palace said Feb. 5. "Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure. He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible."

The Duchess of York's rep said in a statement on Jan. 21 that Sarah was recently diagnosed with malignant melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer. Several months prior, she underwent a single mastectomy to treat breast cancer.

On Jan. 14, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark made history as she officially abdicated the throne, handing the crown over to her son, now known as King Frederik the 10th. 

Kensington Palace announced on Jan. 17 that Kate Middleton underwent planned abdominal surgery and was set to remain in the hospital for 10 to 14 days.

"Based on the current medical advice," the Palace said, "she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter."

Amid Kate's recovery, Prince William postponed a number of engagements as he supported his family, including the couple's three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

Shortly after Kate's hospitalization was made public, Buckingham Palace shared that Charles "has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate."

"His Majesty's condition is benign and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure," the statement added. "The King’s public engagements will be postponed for a short period of recuperation."

Princess Claire and Prince Felix of Luxembourg welcomed son Balthazar Felix Karl on Jan. 7, the first royal baby of the New Year!