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The health of Kate Middleton has been keenly observed ever since she was admitted to the hospital in January 2024. On January 17, 2024, Kensington Palace made it known that the Princess of Wales had undergone a scheduled abdominal operation at The London Clinic, emphasizing that the procedure went well. Soon after the announcement was made, her spouse, Prince William , was spotted visiting her at the medical facility.
Some months later, specifically on March 22, 2024, Kate revealed through a video message that tests conducted after her surgery had detected cancer, and she had commenced chemotherapy. By September 9, 2024, she disclosed that her chemotherapy was complete and that she was now dedicated to remaining “cancer free.”
“As the summer concludes, I can’t express how much of a comfort it is to have finally finished my chemotherapy,” the princess expressed in her declaration. “Prioritizing my health to ensure I remain cancer free is now my chief concern. Despite completing chemotherapy, my journey toward wellness and total recovery is extensive, and I must continue to approach each day individually.”
In 2025, Kate verified she was in remission and has since steadily resumed her public commitments. During World Cancer Day, she also provided a unique insight into her battle with cancer, recognizing moments filled with apprehension and weariness, while providing encouragement to others confronting similar challenges. Here’s all you need to know about Kate’s previous health issues and her current condition.
A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales
As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment.
The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an… pic.twitter.com/9S1W8sDHUL
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) September 9, 2024
Why Did Kate Middleton Have Abdominal Surgery?
On January 17, 2024, Kensington Palace issued an unprecedented statement, revealing that the Princess of Wales had been admitted to the hospital.
“Her Royal Highness was admitted to the hospital to undergo a planned abdominal surgical procedure,” the palace’s statement indicated. “The surgery was successful, and it is anticipated that she will remain in the hospital for a period of ten to fourteen days, after which she will return home to proceed with her recuperation. According to current medical advice, she is unlikely to resume public duties until after Easter.”
The palace’s statement further stated, “The Princess of Wales understands that this statement will generate considerable interest. She is hopeful that the public will appreciate her desire to maintain a sense of normalcy for her children as much as possible, as well as her wish for her personal health details to remain confidential. Consequently, Kensington Palace will only issue updates regarding Her Royal Highness’ progress when there is substantial new information to share. The Princess of Wales expresses her regrets to those affected by the necessity to postpone her forthcoming engagements. She anticipates reinstating as many engagements as possible at the earliest opportunity.”
According to several media sources, Kate’s surgery was neither cancerous nor presented a life-threatening condition. The rationale behind the “planned” procedure remains uncertain.
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Shortly after the news of her hospitalization came out, paparazzi captured pictures of William departing from the hospital. Sources also unveiled that the Prince of Wales has also rearranged his schedule to offer support to his wife and children, according to information from People.
The news source later mentioned that individuals close to the royal family experienced the same level of surprise as the general public when Kate was hospitalized. While the Princess of Wales appeared to be in good health in December, those affiliated with the royals observed that certain public appearances were pending her confirmation, as reported by the publication. Regarding the choice to maintain the privacy of her surgery, unlike King Charles III‘s surgery announcement, People noted that her reason was as stated by the palace: to preserve “as much normality” as possible for her children. However, Charles chose to reveal the news of his operation to the public as it seemed “reasonable” to do so.
“It was reasonable to be more transparent about it; otherwise, people might have anticipated the worst,” a palace insider informed the publication regarding Charles’ choice to keep the public informed.
Kate Middleton Was Diagnosed With Cancer
After several weeks of her noticeable absence, Kate announced that she had received a cancer diagnosis in a video message that was posted in March 2024.
“In January, I underwent a major abdominal surgery in London and it was initially believed that my condition was not cancerous. The surgery was successful,” she stated before adding, “However, subsequent tests found the presence of cancer. My medical team then advised that I should start a course of preventative chemotherapy, and I am currently in the initial stages of undergoing that treatment.”
How Is Kate Middleton’s Health Today?
After the operation, sources indicated that Kate was “doing favorably” in the People report. Given that the royal family prefers to maintain the privacy of her personal affairs, she seemingly projects a healthy lifestyle to the public.
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On January 29, 2024, Kensington Palace released a statement indicating that Kate had come back home to continue her recuperation. “Her progress is positive. The Prince and Princess express their profound gratitude to the entire team at The London Clinic, particularly the dedicated nursing staff, for the care they have administered. The Wales family remains thankful for the supportive wishes they have been receiving from across the globe,” Kensington Palace stated.
In the following week, Us Weekly communicated that William is getting back to his previously scheduled work commitments to participate in and host a series of upcoming events. However, it is currently not evident if that has been impacted by his father King Charles III‘s recent cancer diagnosis.
After William was not present at his late godfather’s memorial because of a “personal matter,” concerns emerged that it was connected to Kate’s health. Nevertheless, Kensington Palace clarified that Kate “continues to progress positively” following her operation in a statement obtained by NBC News on February 27.
Kate’s uncle Gary Goldsmith later shared his perspective on the princess’ health status. During his participation on Celebrity Big Brother UK on March 6, 2024, Gary addressed the reason why his niece has not publicly discussed her surgical procedure.
“Because she prefers not to discuss it,” Gary stated, prior to adding, “I communicated with her mum, my sister. She’s receiving the finest care available. All the family has done is to rally together and prioritize family matters, above everything else.”
On March 10, Kate ended her silence through an Instagram statement, expressing her gratitude to her supporters for their positive wishes.
“Thank you for your well wishes and continued support over the past couple of months,” she captioned an Instagram update.
On September 9, 2024, Kate affirmed that she had completed chemotherapy and that her “priority” is to remain “cancer free.”
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On January 14, 2025, the Princess of Wales mentioned in a social media update, “It brings comfort to now be in remission and I continue to concentrate on getting better. As anyone familiar with a cancer diagnosis knows, adjusting to a new normal is a gradual process. I am, however, anticipating a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to anticipate. I appreciate the continued support of everyone. C.”
In more recent developments, Kate delivered her first public address since her diagnosis on November 18, 2025, during the Future Workforce Summit in London — a notable advancement in her return to royal responsibilities. The following day, on November 19, 2025, she attended the Royal Variety Performance, where she had a heartwarming interaction with singer Jessie J, with whom she connected through their parallel experiences with cancer.
Commencing the new year positively, Kate commemorated her 44th birthday through a meaningful Instagram video, reflecting on her bond with Mother Nature.
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LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 06: The Prince and Princess of Wales with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis look at messages on the Kindness Tree ahead of the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey on December 6, 2024 in London, England. The Prince and Princess of Wales, along with other members of the Royal Family, attended the annual carol service. Led by The Princess and supported by The Royal Foundation, the event offered a chance to pause and reflect on the profound values of love, compassion, and the vital connections we share—particularly during life's most challenging moments. The service also highlighted remarkable individuals from across the UK who have demonstrated extraordinary kindness, empathy, and support within their communities. (Photo by Jordan Pettitt – WPA Pool/Getty Images)
Kate Middleton sweetly held Princess Charlotte's hand as they walked to Christmas Day church service in Sandringham. Prince George walked beside Charlotte, while Prince Louis held onto Prince William's hand.