King Charles reveals diagnosis as Princess Catherine's 'abdominal issue' sparks concern | Newshub

Summary

Princess Kate Middleton and King Charles III of Britain are both undergoing surprise surgeries, causing concern across the Commonwealth. Kate will have abdominal surgery requiring weeks of recovery time, while Charles will have a common procedure for an enlarged prostate. With Kate's husband Prince William also taking time off, three senior royals will be unavailable, so Camilla, Princess Anne and Sophie will take on more duties. Despite the shock, there is optimism that the fit, active royals will make full recoveries.

Takeaways

• 😞 Princess Kate and King Charles are both undergoing surgery, worrying the British public
• 🏥 The Princess is recovering from abdominal surgery at a private London hospital
• 🤒 The surgery was successful but Kate will be out of royal duties for months
• 👑 No prior indication Kate was unwell - she led festivities in December as usual
• 🤫 Kate wants her medical details kept private to maintain normality for her kids
• ⚕️ Few details disclosed, but it's a serious non-cancer related condition
• 👴 King Charles having routine surgery for enlarged prostate next week
• 🙏 Condition is benign - king shared to encourage other men to get checked
• 🤝 With William caring for Kate, 3 other royals will take on more duties
• 😊 Despite concern, optimism Kate & Charles will recover fully & swiftly

Q & A

What procedures did Kate Middleton undergo?

Kate Middleton underwent abdominal surgery to treat an undisclosed abdominal issue. The exact details of the procedure were not provided to maintain her medical privacy.

Why will Kate Middleton be out of royal duties for months?

The statement from Kensington Palace said the abdominal surgery Kate underwent was successful but she will need to cancel all engagements outside of Easter to fully recover, which is expected to take up to 2 weeks in the hospital and months of recovery time.

What procedure did King Charles undergo?

King Charles underwent minor surgery to treat an enlarged prostate, which is a common condition in men his age. He had keyhole surgery that many men get, and results are usually very good.

Why did King Charles publicize his prostate surgery?

It's understood King Charles wanted to publicize his prostate surgery to encourage other men to get checked for this common condition.

Who will take over royal duties with Charles, William, and Kate out?

With Charles, William, and Kate unavailable, Queen Camilla, Princess Anne, and Sophie the Duchess of Edinburgh have been briefed to step up and take over some royal engagements in the interim.

Was there any prior indication Kate Middleton was unwell?

No, Kate seemed healthy and cheerful at recent Christmas events in December. The abdominal surgery came as a surprise announcement.

Is Kate's medical condition related to cancer?

It is understood her condition is not cancer-related, though exact details were not provided.

Why was extra security in place at the hospital for Kate's surgery?

As a senior royal, extra security precautions were taken and police guard was in place at the London Clinic where Kate had her abdominal surgery.

Have Charles and Kate had health issues before this?

No, both Charles and Kate have seemed relatively fit and healthy in recent years, with no known major health issues prior to this.

What have the public reactions been to the health news?

There has been widespread public concern, but also optimism that both will recover fully given their active lifestyles and good health previously.