DURHAM, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 15: Prince Charles, Prince of Wales visits the new Emergency Service Station at Barnard Castle on February 15, 2018 in Durham, England. (Photo by Chris Jackson – WPA Pool /Getty Images)

Buckingham Palace has disclosed that King Charles is grappling with a form of cancer, a revelation that surfaced during his recent treatment for an enlarged prostate. The specific type of cancer has not been disclosed, but as per a palace statement, the King commenced “regular treatments” on Monday. Despite the challenging diagnosis, Buckingham Palace emphasizes the King’s optimistic outlook towards his treatment and his eagerness to resume full public duties at the earliest.

In light of the diagnosis, the King will be temporarily stepping back from public engagements, with expectations that other senior royals will assume some of his responsibilities during the treatment period. No details have been released regarding the stage of cancer or any prognosis. The 75-year-old monarch returned to London from Sandringham in Norfolk on Monday morning and has initiated outpatient treatment.

Although public events will be put on hold, King Charles is determined to uphold his constitutional role as the head of state, managing paperwork and engaging in private meetings. His commitment to fulfilling his duties was evident as he attended a church service in Sandringham on Sunday, warmly acknowledging the crowds. Notably, the King underwent a prostate procedure at a private London hospital over a week ago.

It is noteworthy that King Charles chose to make his prostate treatment public in a bid to encourage more men to undergo prostate checks. The palace previously highlighted his delight in raising awareness about the issue, with the NHS website reporting a notable increase in inquiries related to prostate conditions following his disclosure.