**King Charles** continues to fulfill his **royal duties** while undergoing **cancer treatment**, with reports indicating his **treatment will extend into 2025**. While his recent **state visit plans** suggest **positive progress**, royal experts warn that **the Palace may face significant challenges ahead**.
King Charles’ Health and Public Reaction
The **74-year-old monarch** revealed his **cancer diagnosis last year**, a decision that reportedly **divided the royal family**. Despite opposition from **Queen Camilla**, Charles chose to **publicly disclose his illness**, resulting in a **surge of awareness for cancer screenings in the UK**.
In a heartfelt statement, Charles expressed his gratitude:
"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."
Ongoing Cancer Treatment and Public Appearances
While **Buckingham Palace has not disclosed** the exact **type of cancer** Charles is battling, sources confirm he **regularly attends private medical appointments** in **London**. Reports suggest his treatment is **moving in a positive direction**, though it remains a **long-term process**.
According to **Laura Lee, CEO of cancer support charity Maggie’s**, long-term cancer treatment is **not uncommon**:
"It’s very common for treatment to be ongoing for long periods of time. The impact and recovery vary depending on the type of cancer and treatment plan."
King Charles’ Upcoming State Visit to Italy
Despite his health challenges, **King Charles and Queen Camilla** are scheduled to **visit Italy and the Holy See in April**, where they will meet **Pope Francis** and attend **Catholic Holy Year celebrations**.
This will mark **Charles’ 17th visit to Italy**, but his **first as King**.
Former **royal butler Grant Harrold** praised Charles for **managing his commitments carefully**:
"Because of his age and health, the Palace is being careful in planning his engagements. They are ensuring he can carry out his role while also considering his well-being."
Royal Expert Highlights Concerns Over Charles’ Health
Despite Charles’ determination, **royal expert Daniela Elser** has raised concerns over **his health and declining physical appearance**. Comparing recent photos of the King to those taken **just four years ago**, she noted a **visible decline**:
"The King might have been all smiles at church in late January, but Buckingham Palace is facing an unprecedented challenge—how to keep the monarchy running with an aging, cancer-battling monarch."
Personal Losses Add to King Charles’ Challenges
In addition to his **health battle**, Charles has faced **deep personal losses**. In 2022, he mourned the passing of **his mother, Queen Elizabeth II**, and in **March 2024**, he lost **his longtime friend Ian Farquhar**.
Most recently, Charles announced the death of **his close friend and spiritual leader, The Aga Khan**, who passed away at **age 88**. The two had been photographed together at **multiple royal engagements**, with **King Charles reportedly deeply saddened** by the news.
Will King Charles Abdicate?
With his **health in question**, royal watchers are debating whether **King Charles will eventually step down**, or if he will **remain on the throne until his final days**.
As speculation grows, one thing remains clear: the **monarchy is facing an uncertain future**, with Charles’ ability to lead **under increasing scrutiny**.
