Citizens of the United Kingdom have expressed concern for their monarch after it was announced King Charles would need to undergo a procedure to address a medical problem.
The 75-year-old is set to have a procedure to rectify a problem with his prostate that affects thousands of men each year.
King Charles Set to Undergo Surgery
After the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, her son Prince Charles became the king of Britain, taking on the duties of the monarchy.
It was recently announced he’d have a “corrective procedure” in the hospital after it was revealed he’s suffering from an enlarged prostate (via BBC).
Common Problem Across the Nation
According to Yale Medicine, over 50% of men aged between 51 and 60 suffer from an enlarged prostate, known in the medical world as benign prostatic hyperplasia.
While not considered a severe threat, if left untreated, it can begin to cause various problems, including difficulty in urinating.
Royal Spokesperson Releases Statement
A statement released by Buckingham Palace on behalf of the king confirmed he will be admitted to hospital to have a procedure on his enlarged prostate.
“In common with thousands of men each year, the king has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate,” the statement said (via MSN).
King Charles Set to Enter Hospital Next Week
With the announcement, the spokesperson informed the British public that their king would be admitted to hospital in less than seven days.
“His Majesty’s condition is benign, and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure,” read the statement.
Double Trouble for the Royals
King Charles’ forthcoming operation was announced on the same day as news about Kate Middletons’ recent surgery was revealed.
Prince William’s wife recently underwent abdominal surgery, which will leave her hospitalized for up to a two weeks.
Unusual News Coming From Buckingham Palace
Seldom are any of the royals’ health problems released, which makes it unique that two announcements were made on the same day.
While reports are unsure just what kind of operation Charles will experience, they were able to summarize that Princess Catherine’s problems were not cancer-related.
Forced to Cancel Meetings in Scotland
In the wake of the news, King Charles was forced to cancel various meetings with foreign dignitaries set to go down last Thursday in Scotland.
The statement reads, “Public engagements will be postponed for a short period of recuperation.”
Charles Aims to Encourage Others to Get Checked Out
According to a source from within Buckingham Palace, Charles hoped the news would reduce the stigma around a prostate checkup.
They said 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” (via NBC News).
King Set to Be Sidelined
How long King Charles will be sidelined is uncertain, as no report specifically mentions how long he will remain in care.
However, speculation has arisen as to whether or not Prince William will take on some of the king’s duties during his absence.
Source Shares Insider Information
A royal source confirmed to People that Prince William will not be called upon to fill in during King Charles’ absence.
According to the source, even after surgery, King Charles will be able to fulfill the requirements asked of him as the British monarch, leading to the idea that it’s likely to be a minor operation.
Heir to the Throne
It looks like Prince William, who is heir to Charles’ thone, will likely have to wait for an extended period before he takes over the reins.
William, otherwise known as the Prince of Wales, currently serves as his father’s Counsellor of State.
