King Charles' cancer diagnosis prompts Prince Harry to return to the UK

2024 is turning out to be a pretty shaky year for the Royal Family, especially when it comes to the health of the royals and Buckingham Palace's latest announcement has rocked the world.

Prince Harry to make swift return to the UK as King Charles' health takes a turn for the worse
© Karwai Tang / Contributeur
Prince Harry to make swift return to the UK as King Charles' health takes a turn for the worse

It has only been a few days since King Charles left the London Clinic after getting a procedure done for his enlarged prostate. While things seemed to be looking up for the royal as he was seen attending church on Sunday, 4 February, the Palace made an announcement that was very unexpected.

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It has been revealed that after King Charles received treatment for his prostate, he was diagnosed with cancer.

As of now, the type of cancer remains unknown.

Statement from Buckingham Palace

The Palace said in a statement on 5 February :

During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.

They added that the monarch has already begun 'a schedule of regular treatments' and has been advised to postpone public duties. The King will continue, however, to 'undertake State business and official paperwork as usual'.

Messages of support for the King

First Sarah Ferguson and now King Charles. The news of his diagnosis has taken the world by surprise and messages from British leaders and royal fans have been pouring in.

Rishi Sunak soon after tweeted on X:

Wishing His Majesty a full and speedy recovery. I have no doubt he’ll be back to full strength in no time and I know the whole country will be wishing him well.

While a royal fan said:

The devastating news has also sparked quick action from Prince Harry as it has been reported that he will be flying to the UK to visit his father.

Prince Harry to return to the UK

A source close to the Duke of Sussex has informed Press Association that the Prince has been in touch with his father and will be coming back to the UK in light of the diagnosis. The source, who remains anonymous, said as quoted by The Guardian:

The duke did speak with his father about his diagnosis. He will be traveling to UK to see His Majesty in the coming days

As reported by Hello! it is understood that Harry will not be joined by Meghan and their children Prince Archie, and Princess Lilibet.

For now none of the members of the Royal Family have addressed the public on the matter.

King Charles optimistic about his treatment

It should also be noted that while Buckingham Palace has made the announcement, various details about the treatment will likely be kept under wraps—similar to the decision that Kate Middleton has taken with her abdominal surgery.

Nevertheless, the institution has reassured the public that the King remains optimistic about the treatment. They even wrote that the King 'looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible'—which is unsurprising considering the monarch is known for dedicating a lot of time to his work.

They concluded by saying:

He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.
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.

Read more:

⋙ King Charles' schedule is worrying his staff as insider says it's 'a struggle to keep up with him'

⋙ King Charles makes a historic move and appoints first ever female equerry: Who is Captain Kat Anderson?

⋙ Breaking Bad actor, Bob Odenkirk, finds out he is related to King Charles, here’s how

Sources used:

The Guardian: King Charles: Prince Harry to travel to UK in coming days to see father after cancer diagnosis – latest news updates

The Independent: Prince Harry will rush home to the UK after Charles cancer diagnosis

BBC: King Charles III diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace says

Buckingham Palace statement

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Piers Morgan: The presenter urges King Charles to reveal his full cancer diagnosis Piers Morgan: The presenter urges King Charles to reveal his full cancer diagnosis