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King Charles III maintains a relatively good state of health at the age of 76. Nevertheless, the esteemed monarch, who shares his life with his wife, Queen Camilla, disclosed that he had been diagnosed with a “form of cancer” that was identified following a surgical procedure. This surprising diagnosis reportedly left several insiders from Buckingham Palace feeling “shocked,” as reported by People.

“I was genuinely taken aback when I learned about it,” a source revealed to the publication on February 6, further commenting, “He hasn’t appeared to be his usual self. Initially, I attributed it to the grief he’s been experiencing—having lost two significant people in quick succession—but perhaps he was unwell without being fully aware of it. Such events can certainly take a toll on him.”

The health of King Charles has been of paramount concern for the Palace ever since he ascended to the throne following the passing of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who lived to the impressive age of 96. In a rare public statement made in May 2025, his son Prince Harry expressed his feelings regarding the estrangement from his family and declared his desire for “reconciliation” with his father.

“Life is indeed precious. I’m uncertain about how much longer my father has,” Harry acknowledged in a BBC interview that month. “He won’t engage with me due to issues surrounding security. However, it would be wonderful to mend our relationship. … I long for a reconciliation with my family. Continuing to fight serves no purpose anymore.”

Here’s a comprehensive overview of King Charles III’s current health status.

Recent Medical Procedures for King Charles III: Treatment for Enlarged Prostate

On January 17, 2024, Buckingham Palace issued a statement revealing that King Charles was slated for hospitalization due to an upcoming surgical procedure.

“In line with the experiences of thousands of men each year, The King has sought medical intervention for an enlarged prostate,” the statement articulated. “His Majesty’s condition is benign, and he will be admitted to the hospital next week for a corrective procedure. Consequently, the King’s public engagements will be temporarily postponed to facilitate a short period of recuperation.”

The news surrounding King Charles’ impending surgery coincided with Kensington Palace announcing that his daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, was also hospitalized for a “planned abdominal surgery.” The Palace later confirmed that Kate’s surgery was successful, and she was on the mend.

Understanding Enlarged Prostate: Key Facts About Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

An enlarged prostate, clinically known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), can lead to various complications related to the bladder, urinary tract, or kidneys, as outlined by the Mayo Clinic. This condition becomes increasingly prevalent with advancing age, particularly in men over the age of 50. Treatment options encompass medications, surgical intervention, and other procedural approaches to manage the symptoms effectively.

Current Health Status of King Charles III: Recent Updates

On January 29, 2024, both Charles and Camilla were spotted departing from The London Clinic. On the same day, the Palace provided an update regarding Charles’ health, stating, “The King was discharged from the hospital this afternoon following planned medical treatment and has rescheduled upcoming public engagements to allow for a period of private recuperation,” according to a statement relayed by ABC News.

Additionally, the Royal Family’s official Instagram account published a statement on January 29, expressing gratitude to all those who sent well wishes during The King’s hospital stay. “His Majesty is thrilled that his diagnosis is positively contributing to public health awareness,” the statement emphasized.

NEW: King Charles has left hospital after his surgery.
He did not reply to questions about how he is feeling.
He will stay in London tonight as he continues his recuperation. pic.twitter.com/dIE2gU3tdX

— Chris Ship (@chrisshipitv) January 29, 2024

Shortly after undergoing his procedure, Camilla made a visit to Aberdeen, Scotland, where an ITV reporter, Chris Ship, captured her remarks indicating that King Charles is recovering well post-procedure. “He’s doing well, thank you very much. He’s eager to return to work,” she stated in a video shared on X.

A palace insider also elaborated on why the monarch decided to be transparent regarding his health issues and provide clarity on the situation. “It was prudent to be more forthcoming about it; otherwise, people might jump to unfavorable conclusions,” the source relayed to PEOPLE in a report dated January 25, 2024.

On January 26, 2024, Queen Camilla was spotted leaving The London Clinic, where her husband was being treated. As she exited, she reassured reporters in a separate online video that Charles is “doing well.” PEOPLE reported that the king was recovering nicely following the procedure.

Queen Camilla leaves hospital where King Charles is being treated. She said “he’s fine, thank you” as she left The London Clinic. pic.twitter.com/8BYU8mbRKb

— Chris Ship (@chrisshipitv) January 26, 2024

Regrettably, medical professionals identified a form of cancer in Charles, as confirmed by Buckingham Palace in an official statement on February 5, 2024.

“During The King’s recent hospital procedure to address benign prostate enlargement, a separate health concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic evaluations have confirmed the presence of a form of cancer,” the palace’s announcement stated. “His Majesty has initiated a regimen of regular treatments, during which he has been instructed by his physicians to postpone public engagements. Nevertheless, throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to manage State business and official documentation as per usual.”

Charles publicly expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received since sharing his diagnosis in an Instagram post dated February 11, 2024. “I wish to convey my deepest thanks for the numerous messages of support and good wishes I have received in recent days,” he expressed. “As anyone affected by cancer can attest, such kind sentiments provide the greatest comfort and encouragement.”

King Charles III’s Historical Health Challenges: A Brief Overview

Throughout his life, King Charles has faced relatively few health challenges. In 2003, while still known as Prince Charles, he sustained a hernia while laying hedges in the gardens of one of his estates and subsequently underwent a “fairly routine operation,” as reported by the BBC. In 2008, he underwent a “minor and routine” procedure to remove a non-cancerous growth from his face, according to the Associated Press.

Moreover, King Charles has contracted COVID-19 on two occasions. He first tested positive for the virus in March 2020, coinciding with the onset of the global pandemic. At that time, his spokesperson informed PEOPLE that Charles was in “good spirits” and continued his work from home amidst “mild symptoms.” He tested positive for the virus a second time in February 2022, with Clarence House stating he was “self-isolating” until he was cleared to resume his royal duties.