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King Charles III's cancer was "caught early," according to British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, a day after Buckingham Palace suggested the monarch is feeling positive.
The 75-year-old king had a procedure on an enlarged prostate at The London Clinic, where a secondary issue was picked up in the process.
Further investigation revealed he has a "form of cancer" that he has begun regular treatment for, ruling him out of public engagements for a period of time.
Charles will continue to perform light duties, including his core constitutional role as head of state, which includes signing all new Acts of Parliament into law.
That means he will not need other family members, such as Queen Camilla or Prince William, to act as monarch in their capacity as "counsellors of state."
Sunak told BBC Radio 5 Live: "Thankfully this has been caught early and now everyone will be wishing that he gets the treatment he needs and makes a full recovery."
"That's what we're all hoping and praying for," he continued. "I'm of course in regular contact with him and will continue to communicate with him as normal."
It comes after Prince Harry was racing to be at the king's side after dropping everything to travel to Britain.
Years of royal tension appeared to evaporate as a source close to the Duke of Sussex confirmed he was planning the journey only around 25 minutes after the diagnosis was officially announced.
A Buckingham Palace Statement on February 5 read: "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."
Jack Royston is Newsweek's chief royal correspondent based in London. You can find him on X, formerly Twitter, at @jack_royston and read his stories on Newsweek's The Royals Facebook page.
Do you have a question about King Charles III, William and Kate, Meghan and Harry, or their family that you would like our experienced royal correspondents to answer? Email royals@newsweek.com. We'd love to hear from you.
About the writer
Jack Royston is Newsweek's Chief Royal Correspondent based in London, U.K. He reports on the British royal family—including King Charles ... Read more