Princess Kate and Prince William are "extremely moved" by the public response to the news she is undergoing chemotherapy, a palace spokesperson has shared.
In Kensington Palace's first public statement since Catherine, the Princess of Wales, announced her health status 28 hours earlier, a palace spokesperson has told of the royals' appreciation for the world's reaction.
"The Prince and Princess are both enormously touched by the kind messages from people here in the UK, across the Commonwealth and around the world in response to Her Royal Highness' message," the statement reads.
How the UK press reacted to Kate's cancer announcement
"They are extremely moved by the public's warmth and support and are grateful for the understanding of their request for privacy at this time."
The statement was released at 10pm on Saturday, March 23 (9am on Saturday AEDT).
Kate, the wife of Prince William, the heir to the British throne, announced she was undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer discovered after she underwent major abdominal surgery in a personal video message released by Kensington Palace at 6pm on Friday (5am on Saturday AEDT).
She said her abdominal surgery was not thought to be cancerous but tests later 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," she said.
She said it had been "a huge shock" for her and William and has taken time for her to recover from major surgery in order to start the cancer treatment.
"It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family," she said in the video statement.
She asked the public to give her and her family "space and privacy" as she completed her treatment.
Buckingham Palace then released a statement saying King Charles III, who is also being treated for cancer, was "so proud" of his "beloved" daughter-in-law.
The major announcement followed widespread speculation about the future queen who has been missing from public life since undergoing abdominal surgery at the London Clinic on January 16.
King hands Goldfinger singer honour as she 'forgets to curtsey'
It has not been shared what form of cancer Kate has.
It is unknown exactly when Kate will return to royal duties, but she has said she is keen to return.
"My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy," she said in the video.
"And I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery."
Reactions to Princess of Wales' announcement
Messages of support for the Princess of Wales were quickly offered by world leaders after her announcement.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised Catherine's "tremendous bravery" and said she "has the love and support of the whole country".
Prince Harry and Meghan released a short statement, saying: "We wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace."
The United States government said the update from the princess was "terrible" and that the Biden administration was "incredibly sad to hear of the news", CNN reports.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the administration's thoughts were with the royal and her family "during this incredibly difficult time, and certainly we wish her a full recovery"
Reactions outside Buckingham Palace have been huge since the video was released.
Large crowds gathered outside the gates yesterday, with many bouquets and notes of well wishes left by the gates.
