King Charles diagnosed with cancer: Buckingham Palace

Charles, 75, had spent three nights in hospital last month after undergoing a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate, when a separate issue of concern was noted.

The palace said that tests had identified a form of cancer.

The palace did not give any details about Charles' cancer but a royal source said that it was not prostate.

The Press Association cited a source saying Prince Harry, who resides in the United States, had spoken with the King about his cancer diagnosis and will travel to the United Kingdom to see him in the coming days.

"The duke did speak with his father about his diagnosis. He will be travelling to UK to see His Majesty in the coming days," the source close to Harry said.

The King has started a schedule of regular treatments but has been advised to postpone his public-facing duties.

He will carry on working behind the scenes on state business and official papers, and returned from Sandringham to London on Monday to commence treatment as an out-patient.

"The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure," the palace statement said.

"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."

Well wishes have poured in following the announcement, including from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese who told reporters the thoughts of all Australians were with the King and his family.

"I'll be sending a message to the palace this morning and we hope that King Charles has a speedy recovery and a return to his duties as soon as possible," he said on February 6.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak wished the King "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," he said on X.

Charles was discharged from The London Clinic on January 29 after undergoing treatment for an enlarged prostate.

Buckingham Palace announced on January 16 that the King was to have treatment for an enlarged prostate but that the condition was benign.

It came as Catherine, Princess of Wales, was hospitalised for a planned abdominal surgery at the same hospital.

The Princess was released from hospital in late January to recover at home and was expected to return to public duties after Easter.

The announcement of the King's diagnosis came at 5am AEDT on January 6.

Charles, who acceded to the throne just 17 months ago, was last seen at the weekend when he attended church in Sandringham.

with PA

Australian Associated Press