The address was broadcast as part of this year’s Stand Up To Cancer campaign, run by Cancer Research UK in partnership with Channel 4. Each year, the campaign raises vital funds for research while encouraging people to attend screenings and regular health checks.
Opening his message, the King acknowledged that the festive season is often a time for celebration, but urged people to also hold space in their thoughts and prayers for the hundreds of thousands across the UK who receive a cancer diagnosis every year, as well as the families and loved ones who support them. Speaking from personal experience, he admitted that a diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but stressed that early detection can transform the journey by giving medical teams time and patients something equally valuable, hope.
He also highlighted the benefits of screening, praising the new national Screening Checker available online. The tool allows people to see whether they are eligible for breast, bowel or cervical cancer screening, while answering questions and guiding them through the process. According to the King, removing confusion and fear around screening is essential if more lives are to be saved.