A statement released by Buckingham Palace earlier tonight announced that King Charles III has been diagnosed with 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 illness was detected after the king’s hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement.

“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,” the statement reads.

It adds the news was made public to ‘prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer’.

The reign of King Charles III began on September 8, 2022, succeeding his mother, Queen Elizabeth II who died at the age of 96.

BREAKING: King Charles has cancer, Buckingham Palace has announced. He is undergoing treatment and has cancelled all public engagements. Shocking news. I wish His Majesty a full and speedy recovery. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/m90tjLSBDQ

— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) February 5, 2024

King Charles diagnosed with cancer and will postpone public-facing duties while undergoing treatment, Buckingham Palace says https://t.co/Fypyion1sw

— BBC Breaking News (@BBCBreaking) February 5, 2024