Buckingham Palace has confirmed the brave reason behind King Charles III's decision to reveal his cancer diagnosis.
Charles, 75, received the diagnosis after undergoing separate treatment for a benign prostate enlargement.
In a statement, Buckingham Palace expressed the monarch's desire to assist the public's understanding about cancer.
It said: "His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer."
Buckingham Palace confirmed King Charles' cancer diagnosis at 6pm
GETTY/BUCKINGHAM PALACE
A number of commentators and politicians have welcomed Charles' openness on the diagnosis.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told GB News: "We saw when he had the prostate operation the way that he in a statement, which was completely unprecedented, mentioned the details to help others and this is something he is keen to continue doing."
Tory Lord Kulveer Ranger added: "It's been good to hear the Royal Family being open as Kate has been in hospital, as the King has been in hospital.
"But I think the challenge is I don't think we were expecting any more serious news."
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King Charles was last seen in public during a walk in Sandringham yesterday
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Political commentator Matthew Stadlen also told GB News: "I'm, like others, very impressed by his candour in sharing this information with us, the public.
"Every single household, every single family up and down this country will immediately be able to relate with what he's going through because there isn't one among us who doesn't know someone who hasn't been through cancer."
Chelmsford's Tory MP Vicky Ford said: "[It's] so very brave of King Charles to tell the world about his diagnosis.
"I have no doubt that this will help others with cancer, and lead to greater understanding."
King Charles' previous announcement ahead of his separate treatment sparked 26,170 visits to the enlarged prostate page on the NHS website.
Buckingham Palace's full statement on King Charles' cancer diagnosis
BUCKINGHAM PALACE
The figure was up to a daily average of 1,400 earlier in the week.
The latest statement from Buckingham Palace confirming Charles' diagnosis added: "During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted.
"Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer. His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties.
"Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.
"The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure.
"He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible."