The Princess of Wales has announced she is in the early stages of treatment for cancer.

In a video today, the royal said the last few months had been “incredibly tough”.

The princess was admitted to hospital for abdominal surgery on January 16 and at the time her condition was thought to be non-cancerous but tests after the successful operation found cancer, the type of which has not been disclosed.

The future Queen began a course of “preventative chemotherapy” late in February but is said to have a positive mindset for her recovery and is in good spirits, describing herself as “well and getting stronger every day”.

The King, who is also being treated for cancer, and the Queen have been told about the state of the princess’ health.

Speaking in a video filmed in a garden and while sitting on a bench, the royal 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. As you can imagine, this has taken time.

“It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my 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.

“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. 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.”

In a short statement after the princess’ announcement, Buckingham Palace said King Charles and Queen Camilla "will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time".

The announcement may go some way to ending weeks of intense speculation and conspiracy theories on social media about the whereabouts and health of the future Queen.

It is not known how long Kate will be receiving treatment but it is understood she may be keen to attend events as and when she feels able to, in line with medical advice, although this will not indicate a return to full-time duties.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak led the nation in offering sympathy to the royal, saying in a statement: “The Princess of Wales has the love and support of the whole country as she continues her recovery.”

NHS chief executive Amanda Pritchard said: “On behalf of the NHS, I’m really sorry to hear this shocking news. Our thoughts are with the Princess of Wales and the Royal Family, especially while her treatment continues.

“We know how difficult a diagnosis and treatment journey can be for patients and their families. Speaking out about it is really brave and it can help others to get worrying signs and symptoms checked.

“If you’re worried about cancer, the NHS website has more information here.”

Kent MPs Tom Tugendhat, for Tonbridge and Malling, and Rehman Chishti, have both said their thoughts and prayers are with the Princess, and wished her a full recovery.

MP Tracey Crouch, for Chatham and Aylesford said on X: “I was in a local pub when this news pinged up on people's phones. There was audible shock, followed by unrequited love/affection for Catherine, and an overwhelming desire for her to get well soon.”

Natalie Elphicke, Dover MP, said: “Sending every good wish to the Princess of Wales and her family. Wishing Princess Catherine well in her treatment and recovery. Such a heartwarming message to everyone battling cancer. You are not alone.”

Matthew Scott, Kent Police Crime Commissioner also shared his thoughts and prayers for the princess and her family.

The mother of Kent fundraiser Tony Hudgell also sent her love to the Princess of Wales, describing telling children about a cancer diagnosis as “the hardest part”.

Paula Hudgell, from West Malling, expressed solidarity with Kate, describing how she faced a similar challenge two years ago when she was told she had bowel cancer.

Mrs Hudgell and her adoptive son Tony last met Kate on a visit to the Evelina London Children’s Hospital in Lambeth, central London, in December.

The nine-year-old, now a well-known fundraiser, was 41 days old when he was assaulted by his birth parents, in an attack which caused multiple fractures, dislocations and blunt trauma to the face, leading to organ failure, toxic shock and sepsis.

He has received specialist and life-saving treatment at the children’s hospital since he was a baby.

Asked what her message to Kate was, she said: “Take each day as it comes. It will be a rollercoaster especially with the chemotherapy.

“She just needs that privacy now. We just send our utmost love and prayers to her.”

Mrs Hudgell said she will tell Tony about Kate’s news when he is well enough, following another recent operation he had.

The Archbishop of Canterbury has praised the Princess of Wales for her “compassion and sense of service” in speaking out about her cancer diagnosis.

Justin Welby, who earlier this week had called for an end to the speculation about Kate as gossip and conspiracy theories swirled online, said his prayers were with her, the Prince of Wales and their children “at this tremendously difficult time”.

The Archbishop, in a post on X formerly known as Twitter, said: “I join the whole country, and the world, in praying for her full recovery.

“I take this opportunity to praise her for her spirit of optimism in the face of such difficult news, and am pleased to hear that she is feeling stronger every day.

“Her bravery in sharing in this way and her continued commitment to supporting others speaks to her compassion and sense of service.

“Please join with me in praying for The Royal Family as they deal with this private matter and I would urge people to respect their privacy at this time.”

The Church of England also released “A prayer for HRH The Princess of Wales” in which hope was made for “her continued recovery” along with support for her family and “all who are affected by sickness”.