A Timeline of King Charles’ Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Journey

King Charles in 2024.
Credit: Chris Jackson – Pool/Getty

Key Details on King Charles III’s Health Journey

• King Charles’ cancer diagnosis was revealed in February 2024 following treatment for an enlarged prostate.
• While the King has maintained privacy regarding his treatment, he has occasionally commented on his health.
• In December 2025, he stated that his treatment plan would be “reduced” in 2026.

King Charles III has kept much of his cancer journey private over the past few years.

In February 2024, Buckingham Palace confirmed that he had been diagnosed with “a form of cancer” after undergoing a procedure for an enlarged prostate the previous month. The Palace did not provide specific details regarding the diagnosis but stated that the King had “commenced a schedule of regular treatments.” Despite his health challenges, he gradually resumed his royal duties and public appearances.

This announcement followed his daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, who had undergone abdominal surgery in January 2024 and revealed her own cancer diagnosis in March. By January 2025, Middleton shared that she was in remission.

While the King has rarely discussed his diagnosis publicly, he provided a brief update in December 2025, announcing his treatment would be “reduced” in 2026.

Timeline of Significant Events

January 17, 2024: Treatment for Enlarged Prostate

King Charles III leaves a national service of thanksgiving and dedication to the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla at St Giles’ Cathedral on July 05, 2023.
Photo: Samir Hussein/WireImage

In mid-January, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles would undergo a medical procedure for an enlarged prostate, a common treatment sought by thousands of men each year. The Palace confirmed his condition was benign, and he would attend the hospital the following week for the treatment.

Furthermore, the statement indicated that his public engagements would be temporarily postponed for a period of recuperation. This disclosure was intended to encourage men experiencing similar symptoms to seek medical advice.

January 26, 2024: Hospital Admission for Surgery

The following week, King Charles was spotted arriving at a private London clinic with Queen Camilla. The King was scheduled for surgery at the same facility where Kate Middleton was recovering. The Palace later confirmed the King’s admission and expressed gratitude for public well-wishes during this time.

January 29, 2024: Discharged from the Hospital

King Charles III waves as he departs with Queen Camilla after receiving treatment for an enlarged prostate at The London Clinic in January 2024.
Photo: Peter Nicholls/Getty Images

Three days post-surgery, King Charles was discharged from the hospital. As he exited with Queen Camilla, he acknowledged the gathered crowd and expressed appreciation for their kind messages during his hospital stay.

February 4, 2024: First Public Appearance Post-Surgery

King Charles attends church on Jan. 7, 2024.
Photo: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty

On February 4, the King made his first public appearance since his surgery, greeted well-wishers at St. Mary Magdalene Church near Sandringham, accompanied by Queen Camilla.

February 5, 2024: Announcement of Cancer Diagnosis

King Charles III during the state tour of France in September 2023.
Photo: Samir Hussein – Handout/Getty

On February 5, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles had been diagnosed with cancer during a recent hospital procedure. The Palace noted that the King had commenced regular treatments and would be postponing public-facing duties during this period. Nevertheless, he would continue with State business as usual.

February 6, 2024: Public Appearance After Cancer Announcement

Queen Camilla and King Charles on Feb. 6, 2024.
Photo: James Manning/PA Images via Getty Images

The next day, King Charles and Queen Camilla were seen driving from Clarence House in London. The couple was reportedly heading to Buckingham Palace before traveling to Sandringham House by helicopter.

February 10, 2024: First Statement on Cancer Diagnosis

King Charles III attends the Sunday service at the Church of St Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham estate on February 4, 2024.
Photo: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty

In a statement released by Buckingham Palace, King Charles expressed gratitude for the support received following his diagnosis. He emphasized that sharing his experience aimed to enhance public understanding of cancer and acknowledge the tireless efforts of organizations assisting patients worldwide.

February 18, 2024: Public Engagements Resume

King Charles and Queen Camilla attend church on Feb. 18, 2024.
Photo: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty

Throughout February, King Charles and Queen Camilla continued attending services at St. Mary Magdalene Church on the Sandringham estate, with Charles carefully balancing his public engagements and ongoing health needs.

February 21, 2024: First Meeting with PM Since Diagnosis

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and King Charles meet at Buckingham Palace on Feb. 21, 2024.
Photo: JONATHAN BRADY/POOL/AFP via Getty

King Charles held his first in-person meeting with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak since sharing his diagnosis. During their conversation, the Prime Minister expressed the nation’s support for the King, who acknowledged the many heartfelt messages he had received.

March 21, 2024: Update from Queen Camilla

During a visit to Northern Ireland, Queen Camilla offered an update on King Charles’ health, noting he was doing well despite his absence from public events. She humorously added that she tries to keep him in order.

May 17, 2024: Announcement of First Overseas Trip

King Charles III and Queen Camilla attend the commemorative ceremony on June 6, 2024.
Photo: LUDOVIC MARIN/POOL/AFP via Getty

King Charles announced an upcoming trip to Normandy, France, scheduled for June 6, 2024. This will mark his first international engagement since his diagnosis as he attends a ceremony commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

March 27, 2025: Hospitalization Due to Side Effects

King Charles III leaves Clarence House after hospitalization in March 2025.
Photo: Mark Thomas/Shutterstock

In March 2025, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles had been hospitalized due to temporary side effects from ongoing cancer treatment. He was observed for a short period and subsequently postponed his royal engagements.

September 3, 2025: Candid Discussion with a Cancer Patient

King Charles III talks with cancer patient Matthew Shinda at Midland Metropolitan University Hospital.
Photo: Richard Pohle – WPA Pool/Getty

During a visit to Midland Metropolitan University Hospital, King Charles candidly discussed his cancer experience with patient Matthew Shinda. He spoke about the importance of early detection and the continual improvements in cancer treatment.

December 12, 2025: Update on Treatment Plan

King Charles III records a message as part of Stand Up To Cancer 2025.
Photo: Tommy Forbes/Bango Studios/Getty

In a video message aired during Channel 4’s Stand Up To Cancer broadcast, King Charles announced that due to early diagnosis and effective intervention, his cancer treatment plan would be reduced starting in the new year. He emphasized the importance of early detection for those facing cancer and encouraged public advocacy for screenings.

Conclusion

King Charles III remains dedicated to raising awareness about cancer while navigating his personal health hurdles. His commitment to encouraging public dialogue is evident through his transparency during this challenging journey.