In January 2023, Charles first sought treatment for an enlarged prostate following the death of his mother in 2022. Buckingham Palace announced that cancer had been detected just a month later. The update on his health from Buckingham Palace stated that Charles’ treatment is ongoing, but doctors are optimistic about his recovery.
The announcement was strategically timed for the evening news and likely came as a relief to the British public and Westminster bubble used to alarming news from Buckingham Palace. Although Charles’ role is largely ceremonial, he does play a significant part in the functioning of the British state. He signs acts of parliament into law and hosts gatherings of the Privy Council.
Charles also meets with the prime minister regularly to provide a stable presence amidst the political turmoil of Westminster. The well-being of the royal family has been a cause for concern lately. After Charles’ health scare, his daughter-in-law Kate Middleton was hospitalized for abdominal surgery earlier this year.
