King Charles III to undergo surgery for an enlarged prostate

King Charles III is to head to hospital for surgery on an enlarged prostate.

The news came during a dramatic few hours for the health of the Royal Family. Earlier, Catherine, Princess of Wales, announced she was in hospital for an unspecified abdominal surgery.

The multiple hospital stays mean two of the most senior royals will be out of action for weeks.

“In common with thousands of men each year, The King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate,” a statement from Buckingham Palace on Wednesday said.
 

“His Majesty’s condition is benign and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure.

“The King’s public engagements will be postponed for a short period of recuperation.”

The prostate can often grow larger with age. Charles is 75 years old. It can cause issues with the urinary tract, bladder and kidney.

Benign prostate enlargement is not a sign of a cancer or a risk that a cancer could occur. It is not considered to be a serious issue. One in three man over the age of 50 will get symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

Catherine has not gone into detail about what abdominal issue she has that requires surgery. But British newspaper The Mirror said Charles was keen to share his diagnosis to encourage other men who may have symptoms to get their prostates examined.

The King has cancelled a number of events that were due to be held in Scotland on Thursday and Friday.

He was last seen on Sunday heading to church near the Royal residence in Balmoral in Scotland’s north east.