Almost two years after being diagnosed with cancer, King Charles III has revealed in a recorded message broadcast on British television, that his treatment will be significantly reduced in the new year.

The positive outlook was delivered by the 77-year-old monarch  as part of a campaign to promote early screening and described his milestone as both a personal blessing and a testament to advances in modern cancer care.

His message emphasised that early detection is not only life-saving but also allows for less invasive and less prolonged treatment, coupled with strict adherence to doctors’ orders. Advances in cancer therapies – ranging from targeted drugs to improved radiotherapy – have made it possible for patients to live fuller lives with less intensive treatment regimens and by sharing his own experience, the King has become a powerful advocate for preventive healthcare.

Charles’ openness about his condition has helped normalise conversations around cancer, encouraging people to seek screenings and confront the disease proactively. By sharing his personal struggles, His Majesty has connected with the public in a deeply human way, reinforcing the relevance of the Crown in contemporary society.

His care was managed largely as an outpatient, with regular visits to the London Clinic and 

Buckingham Palace reported that the King was “deeply touched” by the overwhelming response to his health update. Messages of support poured in from medical professionals, cancer survivors, and the general public. The Palace added that his treatment is moving to a “precautionary phase” and his condition will be monitored to ensure his continued recovery.

The King has never revealed what type of cancer he has or the kind of treatment he is receiving and the palace said this was an intentional decision designed to ensure his message reaches the widest possible audience. “The advice from cancer experts is that, in his determination to support the whole cancer community, it is preferable that His Majesty does not address his own specific condition, but rather speaks to those affected by all forms of the disease,” they said in a statement.

In a long and heartfelt message, the King said: “This is a season when our thoughts turn to celebrations with our friends and families. In the midst of this festive period, I just wanted to ask you to join me today in finding a special place in your hearts, and your minds and prayers for the hundreds of thousands of people across our United Kingdom who receive a cancer diagnosis each year – and for the millions more who love and care for them.”

He made the point that from his own experience a cancer diagnosis can feel “overwhelming”, but was keen to emphasise how early detection was the key that can transform treatment journeys, giving invaluable time to medical teams and in his words: “the precious gift of hope”.

The king’s condition was first made public in February 2024, prompting him to temporarily step back from public duties, For several months, he balanced his responsibilities as head of state with the demands of the harsh treatment, embodying resilience and dedication even in the face of serious illness.