British monarch King Charles III has been diagnosed with a form of cancer, Buckingham Palace announced Monday afternoon.
The King, 75, underwent a recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement when a separate issue of concern was noted, the statement said.
That procedure was done about a week ago.
“Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” the statement added.
Pulls back from public duties
Though the exact form of cancer has not been released, Buckingham Palace said, “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.”
King Charles commenced a schedule of regular treatments on Monday, the statement said, adding that during this 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 said.
King Charles was crowned last May following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in 2022.
The statement added that the King was 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,” the statement said.
Governor Jane Owen, in a brief comment to the Compass on the King’s diagnosis, said, “I join well-wishers across the UK family and around the globe in wishing His Majesty successful treatment and recovery.
“His Majesty has shared his diagnosis in the hope that it may help us all create better understanding and support to those affected by cancer.”
The Cayman Compass has also reached out to Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly for comment and is awaiting a response.
According to a BBC report, the King was seen at a church service in Sandringham on Sunday.
Cayman connections
Cayman welcomed the then-Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, on 27 March 2019 – the final stop of their 11-day Caribbean tour.
The royal couple’s official two-day visit to the Cayman Islands included touring the Sister Islands.
That royal visit, 46 years after then-Prince Charles last travelled to Cayman in 1973, was marked with pomp and celebration.
Ahead of his coronation, the King reflected fondly on his time in Cayman.
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