King Charles was briefly hospitalized for observation after experiencing temporary side effects from his ongoing cancer treatment, as confirmed by Buckingham Palace.
In a statement, the palace explained: “Following scheduled and ongoing medical treatment for cancer this morning, the King experienced temporary side effects that required a short period of observation in the hospital.
“As a result, His Majesty’s afternoon engagements were postponed.
“His Majesty has now returned to Clarence House, and, as a precautionary measure and upon medical advice, tomorrow’s schedule will also be adjusted.
“His Majesty would like to apologize to anyone who may be inconvenienced or disappointed by these changes.”
The King has since left the hospital and is resting at home, following the advice of his medical team.
In February 2024, King Charles was diagnosed with an undisclosed type of cancer. Despite undergoing weekly treatment, he resumed his public duties in April.
At the time, the palace disclosed that doctors had found a “separate issue of concern” during a procedure for prostate enlargement.
“Subsequent diagnostic tests identified a form of cancer,” the statement confirmed.
Later updates reported that Charles was responding well to treatment, and his medical team remained hopeful about his recovery, which is expected to continue into 2025.
This week, he kept up a busy schedule, attending a media reception and visiting a soil exhibition. However, some upcoming commitments have been adjusted. His planned meetings with ambassadors at Buckingham Palace were postponed, and he canceled a scheduled visit to Birmingham on March 28 to prioritize his recovery.
Currently back at Clarence House, Charles is preparing for a historic state visit to Italy, which is set to take place in just 10 days.
A source, speaking to the Press Association, reassured that this was merely a “minor bump in a road that is very much heading in the right direction.”
Charles was forced to cancel engagements this afternoon (PA)
Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, was also diagnosed with cancer last year. In September, she shared the positive news that she had completed chemotherapy and was now “cancer-free.”
In December, Dame Laura Lee, Chief Executive of the cancer support charity Maggie’s, spoke about the impact of both royal family members openly sharing their diagnoses.
She remarked, “From what we’ve heard from visitors at our centers, it’s been beneficial that [Charles and Kate] haven’t just focused on one specific type of cancer, but have highlighted cancer as a whole. They’ve shed light on the various treatments, the different impacts, and the many ways people navigate the challenges cancer presents.
“I believe this approach has been much more effective and positive for the cancer community. I know firsthand that everyone is deeply grateful to them for doing so.”
