'We don't know which cancer Charles has or details on Kate - nor should we'

10 February 2024 , 17:40

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Louise Minchin has praised King Charles for being open about his cancer diagnosis (Image: BBC Studios / Alan Peebles)

Like many of us, I was very saddened to hear of the King’s cancer diagnosis.

It no doubt came as a huge shock to him and his family, like it does to anyone who hears that dreaded C-word. I, like everyone else, wish him well as he takes time away from his royal duties to seek treatment and recover.

But how refreshing it is that our monarch has been so open about his diagnosis – firstly with his prostate issue and now with the cancer that was discovered as a result. The King has led a complete sea-change in the attitude of the Palace.

When his grandfather King George VI had lung cancer, his physicians even kept the news from the King himself, never mind sharing it with his subjects.

So, for the King to share his health issues, along with news of the Princess of Wales’s recent abdominal surgery, it represents a radical new reign of candour from the House of Windsor.

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Obviously, we don’t know the exact type of cancer the King is being treated for, or the precise details on Kate’s surgery – and nor should we. It is a delicate line and I think the royals are on the right side of it. Everyone is entitled to privacy when it comes to their medical history and it would be wrong of us to speculate.

After all, it’s easy to forget that the royals are human, just like the rest of us. What they have done, however, is be open enough to start a conversation and raise very important awareness.

Cancer charities have praised the King’s decision to share his diagnosis and the NHS says searches for prostate advice surged by more than 1,000% since his condition was revealed.

And let us not forget that His Royal Highness’s cancer was only found after he sought treatment for a separate prostate issue. This sends a very important message about seeking medical help.

No matter how small or insignificant a symptom might be, it could lead to something more serious being picked up early,
giving a greater chance of a positive outcome.

Both my good friends, Bill Turnbull and Julia Bradbury, were very open and honest about their cancer diagnoses and subsequent treatment.

And I really think that not only helped to raise awareness about the disease but also encouraged other people to seek medical help. It has a massive impact on other people and makes them feel that they are not alone in their battles. I am sure this will give the King great comfort as he recuperates.

Louise Minchin