King Charles delivered an emotional update on his cancer battle Friday night, revealing that doctors have scaled back his treatment plan after what he described as a positive response to care.
“Today I am able to share with you the good news that thanks to early diagnosis, effective intervention and adherence to doctors’ orders, my own schedule of cancer treatment can be reduced in the New Year,” the monarch said.
The pre-recorded message aired during Channel 4’s Stand Up To Cancer broadcast and marked one of the king’s most candid public moments since Buckingham Palace announced his diagnosis in Feb. 2024.
He will continue receiving care, albeit on a reduced schedule, as doctors move into a more precautionary phase.
The 76-year-old has remained active throughout his treatment, continuing with state duties and public appearances – a routine that palace aides said has helped keep him focused and upbeat.
In the address, Charles emphasized the importance of early detection and praised advances in cancer care while extending his support to others navigating the disease.
The message was recorded at Clarence House late last month and aired ahead of a live segment from a Cambridge cancer clinic as part of the annual fundraising event.
Buckingham Palace revealed that the king was diagnosed with an unspecified form of cancer just one week after he was discharged from the hospital following an unrelated health problem.
“During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted,” the palace said in a statement last year. “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,” the palace added.
While officials have never disclosed the specific form of cancer Charles has, they previously clarified that it wasn’t prostate cancer.
“The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure,” the palace’s statement continued at the time. “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,” it concluded.
