King Charles III, 75, has been diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace announced Monday.
“During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted,” the palace said in an emailed statement. “Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.”
The statement also did not specify what stage the cancer was found.
Separately, Buckingham Palace said Charles did not have prostate cancer.
Charles ascended the throne last May after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned until her death at the age of 96. Aaron Chown / Pool via Getty Images
The news comes a week after both Kate and King Charles were discharged from a private London clinic after medical procedures. The king underwent a “corrective procedure” for an enlarged prostate, while Kate, 42, had unspecified abdominal surgery on Jan. 17.
“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 statement added.
According to the statement, the king wanted to share his diagnosis in part to avoid speculation on his condition but also “in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected