King Charles III has called on people across the UK to attend routine cancer screenings, warning that millions are missing vital chances for early diagnosis. Speaking candidly about his own health, the monarch described his cancer journey as “overwhelming” and stressed that early detection can save lives.
In a recorded message supporting Stand Up To Cancer, the King also shared positive personal news, revealing that his cancer treatment will be reduced in the new year, which he described as a “personal blessing”.
Why is the King Charles Speaking out now?
Reflecting on his own experience, King Charles said he was “deeply troubled” to learn that at least 9 million people in the UK are not up to date with the cancer screenings available to them. He warned that fear, discomfort and embarrassment often prevent people from attending appointments, even when screenings are free and easily accessible.
King Charles Cancer Message to Air on British TV
The 77-year-old monarch will share his message in a pre-recorded video airing on British television on Friday evening. Buckingham Palace said the message focuses on the King’s “recovery journey” and highlights the life-saving importance of early cancer detection.
The broadcast is scheduled for 8 pm local time on Channel 4 during a special night of fundraising programmes for Stand Up To Cancer, a campaign that supports cancer research and treatment. The video was recorded in late November at Clarence House, the King’s London residence.
When was King Charles diagnosed with cancer?
King Charles was diagnosed with an unspecified form of cancer last year. His illness was detected in February 2024 during a medical procedure for an enlarged prostate. At the time, Buckingham Palace clarified that the King did not have prostate cancer and said regular updates on his treatment would not be provided.
The decision to speak openly about his condition is unusual for the royal family, which traditionally keeps health matters private.
How has cancer affected the King Charles public duties?
After briefly stepping back from public engagements, King Charles returned to a full schedule this year. He travelled to Canada for the opening of Parliament, undertook overseas visits, and hosted state dinners for President Trump in September and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier earlier this month.
In March, the Palace confirmed that the King had been briefly hospitalised after experiencing side effects from his treatment, though no details were shared.
Earlier this year, Catherine, Princess of Wales, announced that her cancer was in remission after completing chemotherapy. The Palace has not disclosed the type of cancer she was treated for.
PM Keir Starmer Welcomes Update on King Charles Health
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he was pleased to hear that the King’s treatment would be reduced. In a post on X, he said, “A powerful message from His Majesty The King. I know I speak for the entire country when I say how glad I am that his cancer treatment will be reduced in the new year. Early cancer screening saves lives.”
Why does early Cancer detection matter?
In his message, King Charles paid tribute to doctors, nurses, researchers and volunteers, saying he had been “profoundly moved” by their dedication to cancer patients. During the festive season, he asked people to find a “special place in your hearts” for the hundreds of thousands diagnosed with cancer each year, as well as those who care for them.
“I know from my own experience that a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming,” he said. “Yet I also know 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.”
How did early diagnosis help the King Charles?
The King said his own early diagnosis allowed him to continue living a “full and active life” while undergoing treatment. “Early diagnosis quite simply saves lives,” he said. He then shared his personal update, “Today I am able to share with you the good news that thanks to early diagnosis, effective intervention and adherence to ‘doctors’ orders’, my own schedule of cancer treatment can be reduced in the new year.
“This milestone is both a personal blessing and a testimony to the remarkable advances that have been made in cancer care in recent years; testimony that I hope may give encouragement to the 50 per cent of us who will be diagnosed with the illness at some point in our lives.”
Why do people avoid cancer screening?
King Charles said many people delay screenings because they fear “discomfort” or “embarrassment”, but most feel relieved once they attend. “If and when they do finally take up their invitation, they are glad they took part,” he said.
“A few moments of minor inconvenience are a small price to pay for the reassurance that comes for most people when they are either told they don’t need further tests, or, for some, are given the chance to enable early detection, with the life-saving intervention that can follow.”
He ended his address with a stark reminder, “Your life or the life of someone you love – may depend upon it.”
What’s next for the King’s treatment?
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson confirmed that King Charles will continue receiving cancer treatment but said he has responded “exceptionally well” and is now moving into a “precautionary phase”.
Also Read: King Charles’ Health Update & Warning on Missed Cancer Screenings: Here’s What You Need to Know