The announcement prompted a flood of messages of support, with the 75-year-old monarch's estranged son Prince Harry saying he had spoken with the king about his diagnosis and would visit his father.

His younger son who now lives in California with his wife Meghan said he would travel to see the king in the UK over the coming days, a source close to Harry said.

Charles, who became king upon the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on September 8, 2022, has generally enjoyed good health, barring injuries from polo and skiing.

But the palace said that during his recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement "a separate issue of concern was noted".

"Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer," the palace said in a statement, adding that he had begun treatment, but without elaborating on the type of cancer found or how advanced it was.

The palace said the king "remains wholly positive" and "looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible".

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