King Charles's cancer treatment side effects explained

A leading medical expert has shed light on the potential side effects of cancer treatment after King Charles was briefly hospitalized due to complications related to his ongoing treatment. 

Buckingham Palace confirmed that the monarch, 75, was admitted and later discharged on Thursday, March 28, following adverse reactions.

David James, Prostate Cancer Research’s patient projects director, explained to GB News that both chemotherapy and radiotherapy, two of the most common cancer treatments, come with side effects that vary significantly from patient to patient.

"Chemotherapy comes in cycles, and there are short-term side effects, usually lasting a couple of days before people start to feel better," Dr. James explained. "People typically go through a few rounds of that. 

There are also other short-term treatments, such as radiotherapy, which can have side effects, but again, they can present very differently depending on the individual."

King Charles' cancer was discovered during an unrelated procedure for an enlarged prostate earlier this year. However, Buckingham Palace has not disclosed the exact type of cancer or the form of treatment the King is undergoing.

Dr. James emphasized that while King Charles' side effects led to a hospital visit, it's impossible to determine the specific treatment he is receiving.

"Whether you experience short-term side effects or ones that last longer can vary," Dr. James said. "[It's] difficult to say what type of treatment he might be receiving, especially since they haven't confirmed what type of cancer he has other than saying he has cancer."

He added that some treatments, including chemotherapy, may require hospital visits but clarified that this does not necessarily mean this was the King’s course of action.

"I'd be totally speculating, so this is obviously not related to the King's cancer when I say this," Dr. James stated. "However, you might be thinking about chemotherapy, which typically requires going into the hospital, though it can also be administered at home. That doesn't necessarily mean that's what he was undergoing."

"It's extremely important for anyone going through cancer treatment to follow their healthcare professional's advice and take rest when needed," he stressed. "This will significantly improve the chances of the treatment being effective, as giving your body time to rest and recover is essential."

What has King Charles been diagnosed with?

King Charles was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer in February 2024 and has been undergoing regular treatment ever since.

After initially postponing public-facing duties for nearly 12 weeks, the monarch resumed a full schedule of engagements, including a demanding tour of Australia and Samoa.

Despite the brief hospital visit, a royal source indicated that King Charles’ treatment remains on track and that his planned state visit to Italy next month is still expected to proceed.

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