King Charles III has been advised to reduce his duties after the 76-year-old monarch was briefly hospitalized due to temporary side effects from his ongoing cancer treatment. While Buckingham Palace described the health concern as a “bump in the road,” it led to the cancellation of all royal engagements planned for the following day.
The King has been encouraged to reduce his workload, particularly the less engaging aspects, as he continues to manage his cancer diagnosis from early 2024 after treatment for an enlarged prostate.
“The trouble is, he’s been so conditioned to work that I don’t think he functions unless he’s working,” royal author Ingrid Seward told Newsweek. “When he’s not working, he’s probably a bit all over the place, I know I’m like that. He’s always working and it’s just not his nature to take an afternoon nap, which I’m sure Camilla is trying to make him do.”
The king’s commitment to his duties has been notable, with Queen Camilla reportedly being one of the few who has influenced him to ease off. Despite health issues, Charles has maintained a busy schedule, reducing activities only when necessary due to medical reasons.
Seward, who wrote “My Mother and I,” suggested that allowing the King to focus on more engaging duties while delegating routine tasks to other senior royals could be a practical approach.
“Cancer treatment makes you very, very tired,” she explained. “The trouble is it’s his duty as monarch to do these stifling, boring handshakes with incoming and outgoing ambassadors.”
Following the recent health issue, King Charles resumed his duties, marking his first official appearance since his hospitalization at the London Clinic. He appeared in good spirits during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle, where he honored several individuals.
Observers suggest the king’s quick return to work suggests his health is improving. “He’s always been driven, and he’s strong,” Seward noted. This cancer has weakened him, but I think he’s fine.”
King Charles and Queen Camilla commenced a four-day state visit to Italy on April 7, 2025. During this visit, they met with Italian President Sergio Mattarella, toured the Colosseum, and participated in a state banquet at the Quirinale Palace. The visit coincides with their 20th wedding anniversary on April 9
During their Italian tour, the king and queen were scheduled to visit Pope Francis at the Vatican, but they have postponed this meeting following the Pope’s extended hospitalization last month.
Since his cancer diagnosis in February 2024, King Charles has adopted a more open approach to health communication than previous monarchs. Although he has not specified his cancer type, he has been transparent about his treatment, contrasting with the more private approach of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign.
Cancer charities have commended this transparency, noting that by not prioritizing a specific type of cancer, the king raises awareness about cancer treatment and recovery broadly.
Throughout his treatment, which is expected to continue into 2025, Charles has been determined not to let his illness define him. Despite medical advice to delay public engagements during the initial treatment phases, he continued handling state business and official documents.
In October 2024, the king paused his cancer treatments during an 11-day royal tour of Australia and Samoa, emphasizing his commitment to his duties as monarch and head of the Commonwealth.
Observers have noted that continuing his work gives the king a sense of purpose during recovery. However, the recent hospital visit highlights ongoing challenges from his treatment.
As the monarch balances health management with his responsibilities, the equilibrium between duty and recovery remains delicate. While Charles has shown resilience, expert advice suggests that adjusting his workload may be necessary to safeguard his health.
The palace assures the public of the king’s improving condition, emphasizing positive recovery despite occasional treatment-related setbacks.
