London/IBNS: British monarch King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer and has begun treatment, the Buckingham Palace said in a statement on Monday.

The palace didn’t specify what form of cancer the king has, but said it’s not related to his recent treatment for a benign prostate condition.

The statement mentioned that owing to his treatment, King Charles would have to postpone his official duties.

"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," the statement read.

"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," it said.

The palace said that King Charles “remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.”

Charles became king in September 2022 when his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died at the age of 96.

The news of the king’s diagnosis comes as his daughter-in-law Kate, Princess of Wales, recovers from abdominal surgery that saw her hospitalized for about two weeks.