Kate Middleton undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer

Kate Middleton said the news came as a huge shock. 

Kate Middleton has announced she is undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer.

She revealed the news in an emotional video message that was broadcast on Friday evening.

The news comes following weeks of speculation about her health following abdominal surgery at the start of the year. 

The British royal, who is married to Prince William, has been absent from public life since the surgery in January. 

In the video message, Kate said that while the abdominal surgery had been a success, tests afterwards found cancer had been present.

A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales pic.twitter.com/5LQT1qGarK

— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 22, 2024

Kate said the news came as a "huge shock" and that she and William "have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family". She said she delayed the announcement in order to tell her children at a time that was “right for them”.

In the video message that was recorded on Wednesday in Windsor, she said: “I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you, personally, for all the wonderful messages of support and for your understanding whilst I have been recovering from surgery.

“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.

“In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful.

However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.

“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."

She said it has taken time for her to recover from major surgery in order to start her treatment.

“But, most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be OK," she said. 

“As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits.

Kate Middleton with her husband Prince William. 

“Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too. As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.

“We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment.

“My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery.

It is understood the video was released on the day William and Kate’s three children began their Easter school holidays to take advantage of the break to shield them from coverage of their mother’s health.

Last month, it was announced that Britain's King Charles III had also been diagnosed with cancer. 

The Palace said the disease, which is not prostate cancer, was discovered while Charles was being treated in hospital for an enlarged prostate.

President Michael D Higgins has conveyed his kindest good wishes to the Princess of Wales for her recovery and good health