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King Charles' Latest Health Update Has People Asking the Same Thing — Is He in Remission?

King Charles III departs after attending the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church on December 25, 2023, in Sandringham, Norfolk. (Cover Image Source: Getty Images: Stephen Pond)
King Charles III departs after attending the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church on December 25, 2023, in Sandringham, Norfolk. (Cover Image Source: Getty Images: Stephen Pond)
Dec. 17 2025, Published 06:50 AM. ET
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The past 2 years have been difficult for the royal family, with King Charles and Princess Kate's cancer diagnosis. However, the upcoming year already looks a lot more positive after Charles shared his health update on Channel 4's Stand Up To Cancer programme. The King shared with his well-wishers that he has been recovering well and his treatment plan will be reduced in 2026. While the news brought about a new wave of happiness, it also left many asking if the King is finally in remission. So, is it the case?

King Charles talking about his cancer. (Image Source: Channel 4/YouTube)
King Charles talks about his cancer. (Image Source: YouTube | Channel 4)

"I am able to share with you the good news that thanks to early diagnosis, effective intervention, and adherence to 'doctors' orders', my own schedule of cancer treatment can be reduced in the New Year," shared Charles during his recent broadcast. He thanked his medical professionals for helping him heal and sent strength to those fighting the same battle as him. The King urged everyone to opt for regular screening, as early diagnosis can save lives. But does reduced treatment mean the King is in remission? 

"His Majesty has responded exceptionally well to treatment, and his doctors advise that ongoing measures will now move into a precautionary phase. This position will be continuously monitored and reviewed to protect and prioritize his continued recovery. As The King has said, this milestone on his recovery journey is a great personal blessing," Buckingham Palace said via a statement to HELLO! in the wake of questions of a remission. 

Image Source: Getty Images | Danny Martindale/WireImage
King Charles and Princess Kate visit The Prince's Foundation for Children and the Arts at Dulwich Picture Gallery. (Image Source: Getty Images | Danny Martindale/WireImage)

The Palace added how the King has always adhered to his medical team's advice while also remaining active throughout his treatment. "His ability to uphold all of his State duties, and to continue with public engagements and overseas tours, has helped greatly with the positive mindset that, as many families will know, is such a vital part of the recovery journey," they shared. They added that Charles will continue serving his duties in the coming months.

Previously, Princess Kate said she was in remission, which left many concluding that even King Charles is cancer-free. Talking to HELLO! Dr. Raj Arora revealed that while many think phrases 'cancer free' and 'in remission' are the same, they are actually not. "Cancer-free typically signifies that no cancer can be detected within the body," he shared, while in remission means that the 'symptoms of cancer are diminished.' Going by this definition, Charles can be said to be in remission, given the reduced treatment.

Image Source: Getty Images | Eddie Mulholland-WPA Pool
King Charles waves from a car as he visits RAF Northolt to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of Mission Aviation Fellowship. (Image Source: Getty Images | Eddie Mulholland-WPA Pool)

Arora further explained, "Being cancer-free implies that there is currently no evidence of the disease, whereas being in remission reflects a reduction or absence of cancer signs." While one can stop treatment in both cases, the patient will have to go for regular check-ups to ensure no relapse. "The longer you're in remission, the less frequent follow-ups are, and for most cases of cancer, they stop eventually," explained Caroline Geraghty, senior cancer information nurse at Cancer Research UK.

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