Prince Charles warns against cancer becoming ‘the Forgotten C’ as the pandemic takes ‘devastating toll’

The Prince of Wales has been a patron of Macmillan Cancer Support for 23 years

Prince Charles, Prince of Wales attends the VJ Day National Remembrance event, held at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire
(Image credit: Photo by Molly Darlington - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Prince Charles has issued a heartfelt warning against cancer becoming “the Forgotten C”, as the covid-19 pandemic has led to some vital treatments and surgeries being postponed.

For 23 years the Prince of Wales has been a patron of Macmillan Cancer Support. This vital charity provides financial, emotional and physical support to those affected by cancer. 

In a piece for the Daily Telegraph, Prince Charles has highlighted concerns that cancer could end up being forgotten during the ongoing pandemic. 

What has Prince Charles said about the pandemic’s impact upon cancer treatment and support?

In the publication, the Prince of Wales wrote about the impact the pandemic has had. He said: "In many cases, due to the pandemic, difficulties have become crises, a sense of isolation has become actual separation, and – as vital treatment or surgery has in some cases been postponedanxiety has become despair.”

Prince Charles then explained how Macmillan has been evolving to help ensure cancer is not forgotten

He revealed: "Macmillan has been adapting to this ever-evolving situation to ensure that cancer does not become 'the Forgotten C' during the pandemic”.

He disclosed that “earlier in 2020, Macmillan set up a new online Covid-19 hub to provide around-the-clock guidance and advice for people affected by cancer”.

The prince also acknowledged that despite the charity’s efforts, “Covid-19 has still taken a devastating toll, with the charity losing a third of its fundraised income."

He added that: “the impact of the pandemic on cancer care is practical as well as emotional” and explained that “Macmillan estimates an additional 50,000 people in the United Kingdom are now missing a cancer diagnosis they would otherwise have received”.

How has Prince Charles reflected on the country’s response to this challenging year?

Whilst Prince Charles detailed his concerns regarding cancer potentially becoming the “forgotten C” during the pandemic, he also reflected on the collective response of Brits in our country’s hour of need. 

He revealed how “right across our country the formidable will and compassion of the British people have outshone every darkness”. 

Looking ahead to the future, the Prince of Wales also stated: “I have no doubt that the kindness and generosity which has been so much in evidence during this past year will sustain these life-saving services in the months that lie ahead”.

“Compassion, we have learned, has not become fatigued; it has strengthened with use”, Prince Charles powerfully declared.

Emma Shacklock

Emma is a Royal Editor with eight years experience working in publishing. Her specialist areas include the British Royal Family, ranging from protocol to outfits. Alongside putting her royal knowledge to good use, Emma knows all there is to know about the latest TV shows on the BBC, ITV and more. When she’s not writing about the next unmissable show to add to your to-watch list or delving into royal protocol, Emma enjoys cooking, long walks and watching yet more crime dramas!