King Charles to subject ‘historic’ tackle to the nation immediately which ‘breaks Royal custom’
His message, recorded during the final week of November in Clarence House, will reflect on his health journey and highlight the importance of early cancer screening
King Charles will deliver a historic address to the nation today, breaking with long-standing royal convention by speaking publicly about his cancer diagnosis and recovery in a personal televised message. The unprecedented broadcast will air as part of “Stand Up To Cancer 2025”, a joint campaign by Cancer Research UK and Channel 4.
The 77-year-old King was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer in 2024 and has been receiving weekly treatment ever since. However, he has managed to maintain a full working schedule, undertaking five state visits this year alone.
His message, recorded in the Morning Room at Clarence House during the final week of November, will reflect on his health journey and highlight the importance of early screening.
His address will be shown at 8pm, forming a key moment in Channel 4’s flagship night of programming for Stand Up To Cancer. It will air shortly before a unique live broadcast from Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, hosted by Davina McCall, who was recently treated for breast cancer.
Organisers say this year’s initiative aims to raise awareness of early diagnosis and generate vital funding for research and support services. The decision represents a major break with tradition. British monarchs typically avoid discussing personal medical matters publicly.
Buckingham Palace has declined to disclose the exact nature of the King’s cancer or details of his treatment, confirming only that it is not prostate-related. Officials say this is partly due to medical privacy, but also because the King has been keen to use his experience to encourage people to seek help early and to live as fully as possible after a diagnosis.
His openness previously prompted a surge in people seeking information from NHS and charity websites.
King Charles received his diagnosis in February 2024, just days after undergoing routine surgery for an enlarged prostate.
At the time, the Palace said: “During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer. His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties.
“Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual. The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure.
“He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible. His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”
The Stand Up To Cancer campaign has launched an online screening tool, screeningchecker.co.uk, which helps users identify which breast, bowel and cervical screening programmes they may be eligible for and offers trusted guidance from Cancer Research UK.
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