Kate Middleton, the wife of Prince William, has been receiving chemotherapy for her cancer. What can we gather about the Princess’ health from her statement, and what insights do medical professionals offer regarding her treatment plan?
Catherine, the Princess of Wales, caused a global stir with the revelation of her undergoing cancer treatment. Here’s the latest on her journey towards recovery.
In a video announcement, Kate, the Princess of Wales, candidly shared her battle with cancer and her ongoing chemotherapy sessions. However, specific details regarding the type of cancer and treatment regimen were not disclosed.
What Type of Surgical Procedure Did Kate Middleton Undergo?
On January 16, she underwent abdominal surgery, which was not made public until the following day. Kensington Palace disclosed that she was recuperating from a planned operation. Although officials assured the public that her condition was non-cancerous, they refrained from specifying the exact nature of the surgery, only stating that it was successful.
When was Kate’s Cancer Discovered?
In the video announcement on March 23, 2024, Kate revealed that subsequent tests following her operation detected the presence of cancer, placing her in the initial phases of treatment.
She refrained from specifying the type of cancer detected or providing specifics about her chemotherapy regimen.
According to the statement from Kensington Palace, Kate learned about the cancer following post-operative tests.
Is it Rare to Detect Cancer Following Surgery?
Although it’s unusual to discover cancer after undergoing surgery for a condition initially believed to be non-cancerous, it does occur in approximately 4 percent of such cases, according to Dr. Yuman Fong, a surgeon at the City of Hope Cancer Center in Southern California, USA.
“That 4 percent figure encompasses individuals undergoing surgery for what is presumed to be benign ailments,” such as procedures for gallbladder removal or ovarian cysts, Dr. Fong explained.
What Type of Cancer Treatment is Kate Undertaking?
According to the palace statement, no specific information regarding Kate’s cancer or treatment will be disclosed, aside from the fact that her treatment commenced in late February.
“We will refrain from divulging any additional private medical details. Like all of us, the Princess is entitled to medical confidentiality,” the statement asserted.
Following successful surgery, chemotherapy is frequently employed to eradicate any residual cancer cells and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
Treatment approaches have progressed, and in contemporary practice, chemotherapy is occasionally administered for shorter durations or at reduced doses compared to previous standards.
What Side Effects Does Chemotherapy Cause?
According to Dr. Monica Avila from Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida, USA, chemotherapy can result in fatigue, nausea, tingling sensations in the hands and feet, and, in some cases, hair loss.
However, there are medications available to alleviate these side effects. Dr. Avila also mentioned using cold caps, which cool the scalp and help prevent hair loss.
“It may take a patient anywhere from a few weeks to a month or two to recover from these effects,” explained Dr. Avila. She noted that numbness and tingling sensations may persist longer before resolving completely.
What is the Duration of Kate Middleton’s Treatment Regimen?
According to the palace statement, the duration of treatment will be determined by her medical team.
“The Princess is progressing along a pathway to recovery,” the statement noted.
Conclusion
Kate has been receiving chemotherapy for her cancer. According to PEOPLE, the 42-year-old Princess, her husband, and three children spent the Easter weekend privately at home. With the children having a half-term break from school, the family had the opportunity to spend time together during Kate’s recovery.
Ailsa Anderson, a former spokeswoman for Queen Elizabeth, expressed to PEOPLE, “She possesses inner strength and has the support of her husband and her remarkable family, enabling her to focus on what truly matters—her journey back to full strength.”
Reference
What do we know about Kate Middleton’s cancer diagnosis and treatment? [Internet]. Accessed on April 01, 2024. Available from: https://www.euronews.com/health/2024/03/23/what-do-we-know-about-kate-middletons-cancer-diagnosis-and-treatment
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