Charles first sought treatment for an enlarged prostate in January, following the death of his mother in 2022. In a recent update on his health, Buckingham Palace stated that Charles’ treatment is ongoing, but doctors are optimistic about his recovery. The announcement was made on Friday, strategically timed for the evening news.
For a British public and Westminster bubble used to alarming news from Buckingham Palace, this update likely came as a relief. Although Charles’ role is largely ceremonial, he does play a significant part in the functioning of the British state. He signs acts of parliament into law and hosts gatherings of the Privy Council.
Charles also meets with the prime minister regularly to provide a stable presence amid the political turmoil of Westminster. The well-being of the royal family has been a cause for concern lately. After Charles’ health scare, his daughter-in-law Kate Middleton, married to Prince William, was hospitalized for abdominal surgery earlier this year.