Kate has cancer: Princess of Wales confirms diagnosis in emotional video - 'It has been incredibly tough'

The royal has now confirmed that she has cancer but did not say which type of cancer she has been diagnosed with.

No date has been given regarding Kate's return to public duties while she receives treatment for the condition.

The princess confirmed that she has told her three young children, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5, about her diagnosis.

In an emotional video message, Kate 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."

The Princess of Wales continued: "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.

"At this time, I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer. For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone."

It comes less than two months after Buckingham Palace confirmed that King Charles had been diagnosed with cancer.

The King is receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer.

Buckingham Palace issued a statement outlining the King's pride following Princess Kate's courageous announcement.

The Palace said: "His Majesty is so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did.

"Following their time in hospital together, HM has remained in the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law throughout the past weeks.

"Both Their Majesties will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time."

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also issued a statement following Kate's cancer announcement.

Sunak said: "The Princess of Wales has the love and support of the whole country as she continues her recovery."

He added: "She has shown tremendous bravery with her statement today. In recent weeks she has been subjected to intense scrutiny and has been unfairly treated by certain sections of the media around the world and on social media.

"When it comes to matters of health, like everyone else, she must be afforded the privacy to focus on her treatment and be with her loving family."