King Charles has offered a rare and reassuring update on his health as he continues treatment for cancer, speaking openly with a member of the public during a recent royal engagement.

The public first learnt of the King’s health concerns in early 2024 when he was hospitalised for a procedure related to benign prostate enlargement. Following further tests, doctors discovered the presence of cancer, prompting King Charles to begin a course of regular treatment to manage the condition.

Though the diagnosis was understandably a significant concern, the King’s determination to return to public duties soon after beginning treatment was reassuring and it wasn’t long before he was fulfilling his royal duties once again.

While meeting crowds in Newmarket, alongside Queen Camilla on July 22, Charles spoke about how he was feeling in a conversation with cancer survivor Lee Harman.

“I asked him how he was, and he said he was feeling a lot better now and that it was ‘just one of those things,’ ” Harman told PA, as per Hello! magazine.

Harman also shared his own experience with cancer with the Monarch.

“He asked me how I was, and I said, ‘I’m all good, I got the all clear from cancer last year,’ ” Harman said.

Charles’ update comes after he recently revealed that his health battle had shown him “the very best of humanity” while attending a recent reception dedicated to the work of the cancer community. 

“Each diagnosis, each new case, will be a daunting and at times frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones,” he told those in attendance.

“But as one among those statistics myself, I can vouch for the fact that it can also be an experience that brings into sharp focus the very best of humanity.”

Charles went on to thank charities for their work to raise funds for research while reflecting on the value of the human connection they offer patients in times of need.

“It has certainly given me an even deeper appreciation of the extraordinary work undertaken by the remarkable organisations and individuals gathered here this evening, many of whom I have known, visited and supported over the years,” Charles said.

“And it has reinforced what I have long observed during these visits – that the darkest moments of illness can be illuminated by the greatest compassion.”