King Charles III has shared a rare personal update on his cancer treatment, saying he has responded well and that his treatment schedule will be reduced in the new year.
In a pre-recorded video message aired on Friday evening during Channel 4’s Stand Up To Cancer broadcast, the 77-year-old monarch described the progress as “a personal blessing” and praised “the remarkable advances that have been made in cancer care in recent years.”
“Today I am able to share with you the good news that thanks to early diagnosis, effective intervention and adherence to ‘doctor’s orders,’ my own schedule of cancer treatment can be reduced in the new year,” he said.
Last year, the King announced that he had been diagnosed with cancer following a health examination.
While his treatment is ongoing, a spokesperson said his condition has improved.
“His Majesty has responded exceptionally well to treatment and his doctors advise that ongoing measures will now move into a precautionary phase,” the spokesperson told CNN.
“This position will be continuously monitored and reviewed to protect and prioritise his continued recovery.”
The video message was filmed at Clarence House in London in late November. In it, the King reflected on receiving his diagnosis and acknowledged how confronting the experience can be.
He said he knows it “can feel overwhelming” but stressed that “early detection is the key that can transform treatment journeys, giving invaluable time to medical teams – and, to their patients, the precious gift of hope.”
He encouraged people to take part in cancer screening programs, saying “early diagnosis quite simply saves lives.”
“Too often, I am told, people avoid screening because they imagine it may be frightening, embarrassing or uncomfortable. If and when they do finally take up their invitation, they are glad they took part,” he said.
The King also highlighted a new national Screening Checker available online in the UK.
“This simple tool allows you to check whether you are eligible for breast, bowel or cervical cancer screening. It demystifies the process, answers your questions, and guides you towards taking that crucial step.”
During his message, King Charles spoke about the support he has witnessed throughout his treatment.
He said he has been “profoundly moved” by “the community of care” surrounding cancer patients and expressed his gratitude to those working in the field.
He offered his “most heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, researchers and charity workers involved in diagnosis and treatment programs, together with my particular good wishes to those for whom they care so selflessly.”
Cancer awareness has become a central part of the King’s public work since his diagnosis. His first official engagement after announcing his illness was a visit to University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre in London in April last year, where he met patients and medical staff.
He was also named patron of Cancer Research UK and has been patron of Macmillan Cancer Support for almost 30 years.
His openness has been widely praised. Caroline Geraghty, a senior information nurse at Cancer Research UK, said the King’s willingness to share his experience has made a difference.
“He’s visited hospitals, he’s seen patients, he’s visited support centers. He really has kept in touch with people,” she told CNN.
“I think he feels, and as do other people, that he’s got something in common with them. I think them telling us this also highlights the fact that anyone can get cancer. It doesn’t matter who you are.”
The King has not publicly disclosed the type of cancer he is being treated for. A royal source previously said it was not prostate cancer, but no further details have been provided.
A spokesperson said this was intentional.
“The advice from cancer experts is that, in his determination to support the whole cancer community, it is preferable that His Majesty does not address his own specific condition but rather speaks to those affected by all forms of the disease.”
It is not yet clear how long treatment will continue, with decisions left to his medical team.
After briefly stepping back from public duties last year, the King has since returned to a full schedule, including overseas travel.
“The King has taken great comfort and encouragement from being able to continue leading a full and active life throughout his treatment, while always heeding the advice of his medical team,” his spokesperson said.
“His ability to uphold all of his state duties, and to continue with public engagements and overseas tours, has helped greatly with the positive mindset that, as many families will know, is such a vital part of the recovery journey.”
Image: Youtube/The Royal Family
