The King will be «deeply touched» by the public’s reaction to the update on his cancer treatment, Buckingham Palace has said – as screening websites saw a surge in traffic.
In a televised message on Friday, Charles said his treatment can be reduced in the new year thanks to an «early diagnosis, effective intervention and adherence to doctors’ orders».
The monarch, who announced he had been diagnosed with cancer in February 2024, also urged people to take up available screenings for the disease. Cancer Research UK said tens of thousands of people visited its Screening Checker website, which was launched on 5 December, after the King’s message.
NHS England also said its cancer-related pages saw a substantial spike in activity, with almost 4,000 views in a 24-hour period, compared to almost 8,000 over the full week.
A spokesperson for Buckingham Palace said on Saturday it has been «delighted by the scale and sensitivity of the worldwide media reaction», and is «most grateful for the many kind comments we have received for the King, both from those working in cancer care and from the general public».
«I know His Majesty will be greatly encouraged and deeply touched by the very positive reaction his message has generated,» the spokesperson said.
«He will be particularly pleased at the way it has helped to shine a light on the benefits of cancer screening programmes.»
It has long been the King’s view that if some public good can come from sharing elements of his personal diagnosis and treatment journey, then it would be his pleasure and duty to do so.
His thoughts and warmest wishes will remain with all those affected by cancer and those who care for them.
Delivering his message in support of the Stand Up To Cancer campaign, the King said that early diagnosis had enabled him to continue leading a full and active life, even while undergoing treatment.
Cancer Research UK said about 100,000 people had visited its new Screening Checker since it was launched, with the majority taking place after the King’s update. The tool allows visitors to quickly check the different types of cancer screenings available with the NHS, and Public Health Agency (PHA) in Northern Ireland, and helps them find out which ones apply to them.
Michelle Mitchell, chief executive at the charity, said on Saturday: «This response shows just how important open conversations about cancer can be.
Knowing which screening you’re eligible for, and what happens next, isn’t always straightforward, which is why we’ve launched this simple new Screening Checker.
Taking just a few minutes to check what screening you’re eligible for could be an important step towards protecting your health and could ultimately save lives.
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