King Charles diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace announces

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

The diagnosis was made recently while the monarch, 75, had treatment at the London Clinic for a benign enlarged prostate.

In a statement, Buckingham 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 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 and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”

Buckingham Palace was not releasing any further details at this stage.

The king is understood to have personally informed his sons, William and Harry, and his three siblings – the Princess Royal, Duke of Edinburgh and Duke of York – of his diagnosis.

The Duke of Sussex had spoken to the king about his cancer diagnosis and would be travelling to the UK to see him in the coming days, a source close to Harry said.

“The duke did speak with his father about his diagnosis. He will be travelling to the UK to see his majesty in the coming days,” the source added.

It is understood that the diagnosis is not of prostate cancer, in light of his separate diagnosis of benign prostate enlargement.

The king is understood to have returned to London from Sandringham on Monday morning to begin treatment as an outpatient.

The king was last seen in public at Sandringham on Sunday to attend a church service with the queen, which was the first time he had been seen since he was discharged from the London Clinic.

He smiled and waved to wellwishers as he walked to St Mary Magdalene church in Sandringham, Norfolk.