Britain’s royal family is currently experiencing two significant health concerns, as King Charles III is dealing with an enlarged prostate and his daughter-in-law Catherine, Princess of Wales, is recovering from abdominal surgery. This double health scare prompted separate announcements from Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace, showing an unusual level of transparency from royal officials.
King Charles III, 75, is scheduled for hospital treatment next week, while his daughter-in-law Kate, also known as Catherine, was recently admitted to a private London clinic for abdominal surgery. The palace revealed that Kate faces an extended hospital stay of up to two weeks and several months of recovery, but reassured the public that the surgery is not cancer-related.
Charles, who became king after his mother Queen Elizabeth II passed away in September 2022, continues to fulfill his royal role at an age when most men would retire. As head of state for multiple countries and the Commonwealth, he also serves as Supreme Governor of the Church of England. He has made prior public appearances, including a Christmas Day service alongside Kate at his Sandringham estate.
The palace stated, “In common with thousands of men each year, The King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate. 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.”
Benign prostate enlargement is a common issue in men over 50 and isn’t usually considered a serious threat to their health. However, it can affect urination if the prostate puts pressure on the bladder and urethra. Causes of prostate enlargement are still unknown, but experts believe it’s linked to hormonal changes that occur with age.
Kate, married to Charles’s eldest son Prince William, underwent successful surgery and is expected to remain in the hospital for 10 to 14 days, followed by a longer recovery period at home. Based on medical advice, she won’t resume public duties until after Easter. She is known for her popularity within the royal family and has recently been heavily involved in solo public engagements, focusing on areas like early years education.
While Kate’s popularity remains high, Queen Elizabeth II remains the most popular royal, with King Charles III’s approval rating at 51 percent. Kate, 42, often accompanies William and has three children with him. At The London Clinic, where she is receiving treatment, security has been heightened to accommodate the public and media interest.
Kensington Palace addressed the situation, stating, “The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate. She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible, and her wish that her personal medical information remains private.”
