Mere weeks after being hospitalized for the treatment of an enlarged prostate, King Charles has announced that he has cancer and will be canceling all of his engagements for the foreseeable future.
More from Mom.com: King Charles Will Be Hospitalized Next Week for a Routine Prostate Procedure
“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,” Buckingham Palace announced in a statement shared by People.
“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. He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.”
According to the outlet, the king told both of his sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, about his diagnosis himself. He also told his three siblings: Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward.
It was also announced that Prince William will be returning to public duty this week, now that his wife, Kate Middleton, is home recovering after 13 days in the hospital.
“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,” the palace said.
Part of the reason they announced King Charles’ initial treatment was because they wanted to inspire men to have their prostates checked. It worked, as it was reported that there was a 1,000% increase in searches for prostate enlargement on the U.K.’s National Health Service website.
