King to receive hospital treatment for enlarged prostate, Buckingham Palace says

Both the King and the Princess of Wales have or will receive hospital treatment, Buckingham Palace has confirmed, ITV News Royal Editor Chris Ship reports

The King will attend hospital next week to be treated for an enlarged prostate, Buckingham Palace said.

The Palace said Charles’s condition was benign and he would be having a corrective procedure.

His engagements will be delayed for a short amount of time as he recovers.

A statement from the Palace said: "In common with thousands of men each year, The King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate.

What is benign prostate enlargement and how do you get checked?

"His Majesty's condition is benign and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure.

"The King’s public engagements will be postponed for a short period of recuperation."

The news came just an hour-and-a-half after Kensington Palace announced that the Princess of Wales was recovering in hospital after undergoing abdominal surgery, and would be recuperating and away from official duties for up to three months.

It is understood Charles was keen to share the details of his diagnosis to encourage other men who may be experiencing symptoms to get checked in line with public health advice.

The King had a series of meetings and events planned at Dumfries House in East Ayrshire on Thursday and Friday, which are now being postponed on his doctor’s advice.

Guests, including foreign dignitaries and members of the Cabinet, were due to travel to Scotland and the Palace made the announcement to allow for them to be made aware of the situation.

The 75-year-old monarch acceded to the throne just 16 months ago after spending 70 years as the heir to the throne, and was crowned last May in Westminster Abbey.

What are the 5 warning signs of prostate problems?

If you have any of the following symptoms, you are advised to contact your GP.

  • Difficulty starting to pee.

  • Weak or interrupted flow of urine.

  • Urinating often, especially at night.

  • Trouble emptying the bladder completely.

  • Pain or burning during urination.

  • Blood in the urine or semen.

Visit prostatecanceruk.org for more information.

This is the Royal Rota - our weekly podcast about the royal family, with ITV News Royal Editor Chris Ship and Producer Lizzie Robinson.