King Charles III's cancer was caught early, Says UK leader Rishi Sunak

 

King Charles III's cancer was caught early, Says UK leader Rishi Sunak

The prime minister of the United Kingdom has announced that King Charles III's cancer was detected at an early stage, and the entire nation is eagerly anticipating a swift recuperation.

LONDON -- LONDON (AP) — British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed optimism on Tuesday regarding the early detection of King Charles III's cancer and the nation's collective hope for his swift recovery. According to reports, Prince Harry, the monarch's son, has flown from the U.S. to visit his father.

 

On Monday evening, Buckingham Palace announced that the king has commenced outpatient treatment for an undisclosed type of cancer. The cancer was discovered during his recent hospitalization for an enlarged prostate, but it is unrelated to prostate cancer, clarified the palace.

 

Sunak, speaking on BBC radio, expressed gratitude for the early detection and assured that he would maintain regular communication with the king as prime minister. He acknowledged that many families across the country have experienced similar situations and understand the significance of this news. Sunak conveyed his support and wished for a speedy recovery.

 

Despite being only 18 months into his reign, which he had eagerly awaited for decades, the 75-year-old monarch has temporarily suspended public engagements. However, he will continue to fulfill his state duties, including weekly meetings with the prime minister, and will retain his constitutional roles as head of state.

The statement released by the palace confirmed that Charles, who has generally enjoyed good health, remains optimistic about his treatment and eagerly anticipates resuming his full public duties soon.

 

PrinceHarry, the king's younger son who stepped back from royal responsibilities in 2020 and now resides in California, has been in contact with Charles regarding the diagnosis. The office of Harry and his wife, Meghan, stated that he will be traveling to the U.K. to visit his father in the upcoming days. Reports from British media suggest that he is currently en route from Los Angeles.

 

Following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022 at the age of 96 after a reign of 70 years, Charles ascended to the throne.

 

The news of the king's diagnosis coincides with Princess Kate's recovery from abdominal surgery, which required her hospitalization for approximately two weeks. As she recuperates, Kate is taking a break from her royal duties. Her husband, PrinceWilliam, who is next in line for the throne, has also taken time off to support her and care for their three children. However, he is scheduled to preside over a ceremony at Windsor Castle and a charity dinner on Wednesday.

 

Charles has departed from the traditional approach of the royal family by openly discussing his prostate condition. Historically, the British royal family has maintained a policy of secrecy regarding health matters. By disclosing information about his cancer diagnosis, albeit in a limited manner, Charles is breaking with this tradition.

 

In the past, when U.K. monarchs held significant power, news of their illnesses was withheld to prevent any potential weakening of their authority. Even after the monarchy transitioned into a constitutional role, the habit of secrecy persisted.

 

The British public was not informed about King George VI's lung cancer before his death in February 1952 at the age of 56. Some historians even suggest that the king himself was unaware of his terminal illness.

During the last years of Elizabeth's life, the public was informed that the queen was facing "mobility issues" as she gradually started missing public appearances. Her death certificate simply stated "old age" as the cause of her passing.

 

The disclosure of illness and how much information to reveal continues to be a challenging topic for many public figures. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin faced criticism for not informing President Joe Biden and other key leaders about his prostate cancer treatment, even when he was hospitalized in intensive care in January due to post-surgery complications.

 

In response to this, Buckingham Palace stated that the king decided to share his diagnosis in order to prevent speculation and to provide a better understanding for those worldwide who are affected by cancer.

 

When Charles ascended to the throne, his intention was to oversee a leaner monarchy with fewer senior royals carrying out ceremonial public duties. However, with both Charles and Kate temporarily unable to fulfill their roles, Prince Harry relocating to California, and Prince Andrew largely absent due to his association with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the royal "Firm" faces the risk of being severely stretched.

 

During the king's treatment, it is expected that both William and Charles' wife, Queen Camilla, will take on additional public engagements.