Amanda Ross

Staff Writer

amr8469@psu.edu

LONDON, UK — Buckingham Palace announced on Feb. 5, 2024, that doctors had found cancer within the body of King Charles III. The cancer was detected during a visit concerning his prostate, authorities clarifying that the issue does not lie within his prostate itself. As of this time, it is not known where exactly in his body and thus, what kind of cancer he has.

King Charles III was crowned in May of 2023 after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. At the time of his coronation, it was generally understood that the king had a clean bill of health. However, this has not always been the case. Charles contracted COVID-19 twice, once in March 2020 and again in February 2022. The King experienced mild symptoms both times. In 2008 he had a small, non-cancerous growth removed from the bridge of his nose, and was treated for a hernia in 2003. The most persistent of his illnesses is his complaints of back and neck pain, resulting from a degenerative disc in his spine. Degenerative discs occur from aging, the cushion, or disc, between vertebrae slowly becoming thin. This causes pain and a loss of flexibility. 

Prince William, the current heir to the British throne, is set to return to his public duties this week after a short leave of absence. It is unclear whether or not he will fill in for his fathers absence. As well, Prince Harry was seen flying into the United Kingdom on Tuesday, presumably to visit his father after his diagnosis. If the King were to pass before Mar. 25, it would make him the shortest reigning monarch in the history of the crown. William would ascend to take his place, with Charles’ Queen Consort Camilla Bowles becoming Queen Dowager, or the King’s widow. 

As of now, The Palace has already announced that he has begun a routine of care to combat the disease, and is postponing public duties until further notice.