Several cancer charities have reported an increase in website traffic, following King Charles’s recent announcement that he has cancer.
Prostate Cancer UK has reported a 500% rise in people visiting its website and the number of men using its online risk checker to see whether they should get a prostate checkup.
Chiara De Biase, director of support and influencing at Prostate Cancer UK said: “We are saddened to hear of the king’s cancer diagnosis and wish him well as he starts his treatment.
“Whilst we’re aware that the king has not been diagnosed with prostate cancer, more detail about his condition has not been disclosed and we respect Buckingham Palace’s request for people not to speculate.
“The king’s openness and honesty in announcing his treatment for an enlarged prostate raised vital awareness about the condition.
“We saw a 500% increase in people coming to our website for information and support in the week following the news, and an impact in men looking to learn more about their prostate and prostate cancer, with an increase in men taking our 30-second online risk checker.”
Meanwhile, Macmillan Cancer Support, saw a four-year high in visits to its website, according to Guardian reports.
King’s lifelong admiration for cancer charities
On Saturday, the king shared a thank you message following his diagnosis in which he expressed admiration for cancer charities.
He said: “I would like to express my most heartfelt thanks for the many messages of support and good wishes I have received in recent days.
“As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement.
“It is equally heartening to hear how sharing my own diagnosis has helped promote public understanding and shine a light on the work of all those organisations which support cancer patients and their families across the UK and wider world.
“My lifelong admiration for their tireless care and dedication is all the greater as a result of my own personal experience.”
King Charles has not yet announced what type of cancer he has been diagnosed with.
During a hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted, and subsequent diagnostic tests identified a form of cancer.
A statement from Buckingham Palace stated that the king would continue to undertake state business and official paperwork as usual.
“His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer,” it added.
King Charles III has longstanding links to the charity sector, setting up 20 himself and acting as patron for more than 400 others.
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