King Charles says his cancer treatment will be reduced in the new year

UK reaction after King Charles III's cancer news

Royal expert Josh Rom joins LiveNOW's Andy Mac from the United Kingdom to expand on the news that King Charles III has begun treatment after being diagnosed with cancer.

King Charles III spoke about his cancer diagnosis and recovery during a TV broadcast on Friday as the monarch continues to use his personal story to encourage others to get the early screening that can boost their chances of survival.

The 77-year-old monarch’s remarks were broadcast in this year's Stand Up To Cancer campaign, run by Cancer Research UK and Channel 4.

King Charles to speak about his cancer diagnosis

What we know:

King Charles III said Friday that his cancer treatment will be reduced in the new year because of early diagnosis, effective intervention and adherence to doctor’s orders.

"Early diagnosis quite simply saves lives," the king said.

"I know, too, what a difference it has made in my own case, enabling me to continue leading a full and active life even while undergoing treatment,'' he added.

The speech, recorded at Clarence House two weeks ago, gave Charles the opportunity to reflect on his experiences in the 22 months since he announced he would undergo treatment for an undisclosed type of cancer.

King Charles III departs after receiving treatment for an enlarged prostate at The London Clinic on January 29, 2024 in London, England. (Credit: Carl Court/Getty Images)

According to the BBC, his remarks also emphasized the importance of cancer screening checks to ensure more people catch the disease at an early stage.

What they're saying:

Earlier, Buckingham Palace said the king would talk about his "recovery journey" as a cancer patient, in the video message on Friday at 3 p.m. Eastern Time.

"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," Buckingham Palace also said in a statement.

What we don't know:

It is still unclear what type of cancer the king has, as the king did not identify his type of cancer during the message.

King Charles diagnosed with cancer

The backstory:

In February, Charles was diagnosed with "a form of cancer" following a hospital procedure, according to a statement from Buckingham Palace. 

The monarch was undergoing treatment and had been advised by doctors "to postpone public-facing duties," the statement continued. 

 "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," the palace said. 

The palace added that the king "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."

Charles’ decision to disclose his diagnosis was a departure for Britain’s royals, who have traditionally considered their health to be a personal matter and shared few details with the public.

Since then, Charles has used his own story to highlight the need for early diagnosis and treatment. Cancer Research UK recorded a 33% increase in visits to its website in the weeks after the king’s diagnosis, as people sought information about the signs of cancer.

RELATED: King Charles III diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace says

Officials said the cancer was discovered after treatment for an enlarged prostate revealed "a separate issue of concern."

The monarch suspended public engagements for about two months after his diagnosis so he could focus on his treatment and recovery. But he continued with state business and retained his constitutional role as head of state.

Charles returned to public-facing events in April of last year with a visit to a cancer treatment center at University College Hospital in central London, where he met with staff and shared stories with fellow cancer patients.

"It’s always a bit of a shock, isn’t it, when they tell you," he said, sympathizing with one patient as chemotherapy drugs dripped into her arm.

Charles became king in September 2022 when his mother Queen Elizabeth II died at the age of 96.