King Charles gives candid health update during hospital visit as cancer treatment continues
The monarch, who resumed public duties after postponements earlier this year, spoke with fellow cancer patients about his ongoing treatment and recovery.
King Charles has resumed cancer treatment and offered a personal health update while meeting patients at a Birmingham hospital this week. Despite reports that his illness may be incurable, the 76-year-old continues balancing medical care with royal responsibilities.
The King was diagnosed with cancer in early 2024, shortly before his daughter-in-law, Princess Kate, revealed her own diagnosis. While Kate announced she was in remission in January 2025, Charles’ treatment remains ongoing.
Speaking at the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital on September 3, Charles admitted he has faced physical challenges. Sharing a lighthearted exchange with 85-year-old patient Jacqueline Page, he joked, “The bits don’t work so well when you get past 70.”
When asked about his recovery by 73-year-old patient Matthew Shinda, Charles replied, “I’m not too bad,” before reflecting on the progress of modern medicine: “The great thing I think is they’re getting better and better at dealing with these things. The trouble is there’s always hope down the road.”
Speculation about his health
Details of Charles’ diagnosis remain closely guarded. Reports have varied, with some suggesting the cancer is incurable. In June, royal commentator Camilla Tominey wrote that while the King may “die with cancer, not of cancer,” his treatment is helping him manage the condition.
An aide also described him as handling the illness “incredibly well,” crediting advances in medicine and his determination to live life as normally as possible.
Earlier this year, Charles had to postpone several engagements due to side effects from treatment. He later expressed disappointment at missing events in Birmingham but emphasized his commitment to rescheduling them — a promise fulfilled with his latest visit.
While Charles has chosen not to disclose specific details about his illness, he has spoken openly about the comfort he has received from public messages. Shortly after his diagnosis, he admitted that the outpouring of support had “reduced me to tears most of the time.”
During his recent hospital visit, patients praised his openness and empathy. Shinda, who is also receiving treatment, said after speaking with the King: “I was elated. He showed concern.”
At 76, King Charles continues to walk a careful line between his role as monarch and the realities of cancer treatment. For now, his words and actions suggest determination to face both with honesty and resilience — while offering encouragement to those navigating similar struggles.
