Charles: Get screened for cancer, it may save your life

King Charles has called for people across the UK to attend cancer screenings, warning of millions of missed opportunities for early diagnoses as he opened up about his “overwhelming” personal journey.

- NICOLE WOOTTON-CANE

In a recorded message in support of Stand Up To Cancer, he announced his own treatment would be rolled back in the new year in what he called a “personal blessing”.

But the King, who used the broadcast to reflect on his own experiences, said he had been “deeply troubled” to learn that at least 9 million people in the UK are not up to date with the cancer screenings available to them.

Charles revealed he had been diagnosed with a form of cancer in February 2024. While Buckingham Palace hasn’t specified what type of cancer he has, officials said it was discovered after treatment for an enlarged prostate revealed “a separate issue of concern”.

In the address, which was recorded at Clarence House two weeks ago, he urged Britons to overcome “embarrassment” and make use of screening programmes. He also unveiled a new national Screening Checker that allows people to check their eligibility online.