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In this photo illustration, a selection of front pages covering the news of King Charles being diagnosed with an unspecified form of cancer on February 6, 2024 in LondonMing Yeung/Getty Images

Britain’s King Charles on Saturday expressed gratitude to well-wishers following his cancer diagnosis, his first public comment since Buckingham Palace announced he would postpone some engagements to undergo treatment.

“I would like to express my most heartfelt thanks for the many messages of support and good wishes I have received in recent days,” Charles said in a statement.

The palace announced on Monday that Charles, 75, had been diagnosed with a form of cancer, less than 18 months into his reign.

“As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement,” Charles said.

The king said it was heartening to hear how his diagnosis had helped to shine a light on the organisations that support cancer patients in Britain and elsewhere.

The news of his diagnosis came after Charles spent three nights in hospital last month where he underwent a corrective procedure for a benign enlarged prostate.

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