The 75-year-old monarch commenced "regular treatments" on Monday, prompting a temporary pause in his public duties. The Palace conveyed that despite the diagnosis, King Charles maintains a positive outlook on his treatment and eagerly anticipates a swift return to full public duty.
Details about the stage of cancer or a prognosis have not been disclosed at this time. The King personally informed his sons about the diagnosis, with the Prince of Wales maintaining regular contact with his father.
Prince Harry, currently residing in the United States, engaged in a conversation with his father and is set to travel to the UK in the coming days to be by his side.
Upon his return to London from Sandringham in Norfolk, King Charles has initiated outpatient treatment. While public events are on hold, he will continue with his constitutional role as head of state, including paperwork and private meetings.
The King's weekly audiences with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak are expected to proceed, with in-person meetings unless medical advice suggests limiting such contact.
In the event that the head of state is unable to carry out official duties, there is a constitutional provision for "counsellors of state" to be appointed as stand-ins for the monarch. Currently, this group includes Queen Camilla, Prince William, the Princess Royal, and Prince Edward. Non-working royals Prince Harry and the Duke of York are no longer part of this arrangement.
Prince William had recently stepped back from public engagements temporarily to support his wife, Catherine, the Princess of Wales, during her recovery from abdominal surgery last month. The royal family and the nation await updates on King Charles's health as he embarks on his treatment journey.