04/22
Chantel Brink
Chantel Brink
April 23, 2024 ·  4 min read

Doctors Offer Insight Into What Type of Cancer Kate Middleton Has

On March 22, Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, revealed her cancer diagnosis, sharing that she is currently undergoing preventive chemotherapy. The exact type of cancer has not been verified. Two months prior to her announcement, Catherine had fled from official public appearances to recover from a major abdominal surgery. Kensington Palace had clarified that the surgery was noncancerous.

A Treatment Journey for Kate Middleton

Marlow, UK. 12 October, 2023. The Prince and Princess of Wales attend a mental fitness workshop run by SportsAid at Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre.
Credit: Shutterstock

After spending 13 days in a London hospital post-surgery, Catherine paused her public duties to focus on recovery. However, subsequent tests revealed the cancer diagnosis. “This, of course, came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family,” said Catherine. “As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery to start my treatment. It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family, but I’ve had a fantastic medical team who have taken great care of me, for which I am so grateful,” Catherine continued.

Read More: Kate Middleton is Reportedly Verbally Abused By Prince William

Catherine’s Statement

"For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope,” Catherine said in the video.
Image Credit: Fox News YouTube

Catherine, aged 42 and married to William, the Prince of Wales, voiced shock at the diagnosis. She acknowledged the challenging time for her family and voiced gratitude for her medical team’s care. “At this time, I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer. For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope,” Catherine said in the video.

Understanding Catherine’s Cancer Diagnosis: Sparse Details

Understanding Catherine's Cancer Diagnosis: Sparse Details
Image Credit: Pexels

While specifics about Kate Middleton’s cancer are limited, experts speculate based on the initial surgery. Dr. Cathy Eng and Dr. Steven Lee-Kong provide insights into potential origins of the cancer. “The information regarding GI surgery is a very generalized statement. The abdominal cavity contains not only the GI tract but also urinary tract and the female reproductive organs. Abdominal surgery may range from the colon, rectum, stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, small bowel, bladder, kidneys, ovaries, and more,” Dr. Cathy Eng, co-director of GI Oncology and Director of the Young Adult Cancers Program at Vanderbilt University viced.

Potential Types of Cancer

Potential Types of Cancer
Image Credit: Pexels

Dr. Eng highlights various abdominal organs where cancer might have occurred, cautioning against assumptions. Colorectal cancer is suggested as a possibility, though no definitive conclusions can be drawn. “I want to reiterate we cannot speculate on the type of cancer she may have since we do not have all the pertinent information,” Eng said.

Read More: Queen Camilla Breaks Silence After Kate Middleton’s Cancer Diagnosis

Importance of Early Detection

Importance of Early Detection
Image Credit: Pexels

Experts emphasize the significance of early cancer detection, especially among young adults. Challenges in detection and treatment among this demographic are discussed, alongside the role of screening. “We do not recommend stereotyping individuals based upon their appearance alone. Cancer can impact anybody at any age. I think this is a warning sign to all young individuals to pay attention to their bodies,” she said.

Princess of Wales in Treatment: The Treatment Protocol

Credit: Shutterstock

Catherine’s successful surgery was followed by preventive chemotherapy aimed at reducing the risk of cancer recurrence. The nature of adjuvant chemotherapy and its importance in postoperative care are explained.

Impact of Chemotherapy

Impact of Chemotherapy
Image Credit: Pexels

The systemic effects of chemotherapy, including potential side effects, are outlined. Dr. Eng stresses the importance of communication between patients and oncology teams to manage these effects.

Coping Strategies for Families: Royal Family’s Cancer Experiences

London, UK. 02 October, 2019. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attend a special event hosted by His Highness The Aga Khan at the Aga Khan Centre.
Credit: Shutterstock

Kate Middleton’s diagnosis adds to recent cancer revelations within the royal family. Strategies for communicating about cancer within families, particularly with children, are highlighted by Dr. Karen Knudsen.

Support and Well-Wishes

WARSAW, POLAND - JUNE 17, 2017: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visit in Poland o/p Kate Middleton
Credit: Shutterstock

The American Cancer Society commends Catherine’s openness and extends support to her and her family. Respect for their privacy during this challenging period is emphasized. “We know the challenge of explaining a cancer diagnosis to any family member, especially children. Depending on their age and maturity level, children will experience the news of a diagnosis differently. For example, children between the ages of 7 and 12 may have a hard time telling an adult about any distress they are experiencing and might be afraid that what they say might upset loved ones,” said Dr. Karen KnudsenTrusted Source, CEO of the American Cancer Society.

Dr. Karen Knudsen Continued

London UK - 17 June 2023: Queen Camilla, Kate Princess of Wales, Prince George, Prince Louis princess Charlotte Trooping the colour Royal Family carriage on Mall Buckingham Palace
Credit: Shutterstock

We commend Princess Catherine for her openness and vulnerability in sharing her recent diagnosis. The American Cancer Society recognizes the importance of respecting the privacy of the Prince and Princess of Wales and their family as they navigate this challenging time. We wish them all the best as Princess Catherine continues to focus on her treatment and recovery,” Knudsen said.

Lastly

Catherine's disclosure of her cancer diagnosis underscores the importance of awareness, early detection, and support for individuals and families facing similar challenges.
Image Credit: Pexels

Catherine’s disclosure of her cancer diagnosis underscores the importance of awareness, early detection, and support for individuals and families facing similar challenges. The global community rallies behind the Princess of Wales and her family, urging respect for their privacy during this difficult time.

Read More: Kate Middleton Spotted In Public For First Time Since Surgery, But People Are Still Concerned

Sources

  1. “Kate Middleton’s Cancer Diagnosis Highlights Rising Rates In Young People” HealthLine. Andrea Rice and Gigen Mammoser. March 25, 2024.
  2. “Doctor offers insight on Princess Kate’s cancer diagnosis: Findings, treatment, prognosis and more” NBC Chicago. Matt Stefanski and NBC Chicago Staff. March 22, 2024.
  3. “Doctors Estimate What Type Of Cancer Kate Has” TipHero