King Charles III of Great Britain has been diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace said in a statement.The type of cancer has not been revealed yet but was discovered during his recent treatment for an enlarged prostate.

“Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual”, said the statement.

King Charles, 75, had spent three nights in hospital last month after undergoing a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate, when a separate issue of concern was noted. The palace said that tests had identified a form of cancer.

The royal family usually does not share details about illnesses as they regard all medical issues as private matters.But the palace said Charles was eager to share his details “to assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer”.

The announcement from Buckingham Palace comes a day after World Cancer Day, when Queen Camilla opened Maggie’s Royal Free, a new cancer support centre at the Royal Free Hospital in the United Kingdom, seeking to raise awareness and provide expert care and support, for free.