Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, has shared an uplifting update about her health journey. After revealing her cancer diagnosis in March 2024, she has now announced that her cancer is in remission. Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on January 14, she wrote, “It is a relief now to be in remission, and I remain focused on recovery.”

This announcement comes just a few months after she disclosed in September 2024 that she had completed her chemotherapy treatment. While many details about her case, including the type of cancer she faced, have been kept private, her news brings hope and inspiration to millions. Here’s what it means to be in remission from cancer.

What is cancer remission?

Cancer remission is a period of time when cancer is under control, and there are no signs or symptoms of cancer. Remission can be partial or complete, but it doesn't necessarily mean that the cancer is cured.

Definition by National Institute of Health (NIH) reads, "A decrease in or disappearance of signs and symptoms of cancer. In partial remission, some, but not all, signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared. In complete remission, all signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared, although cancer still may be in the body."

According to Cleveland Clinic, "Cancer can remain in remission for months or years. Remission times vary, depending on factors such as cancer type, stage and how the cancer responded to initial treatment."

Types of remission

Partial remission

Partial remission occurs when some signs and symptoms of cancer are reduced, but the cancer is still present in the body.

Complete remission

On the other hand, complete remission is when all signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared, but the cancer may still be in the body

Kate Middleton announcement

Kate Middleton stated in an X post, "I wanted to take the opportunity to say thank you to The Royal Marsden for looking after me so well during the past year. My heartfelt thanks goes to all those who have quietly walked alongside William and me as we have navigated everything. We couldn’t have asked for more. The care and advice we have received throughout my time as a patient has been exceptional."

The 43-year-old further noted, "In my new role as Joint Patron of The Royal Marsden, my hope is, that by supporting groundbreaking research and clinical excellence, as well as promoting patient and family wellbeing, we might save many more lives, and transform the experience of all those impacted by cancer."

Talking about being in cancer remission, the Princess of Wales explained, "It is a relief to now be in remission and I remain focused on recovery. As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal. I am however looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to look forward to. Thank you to everyone for your continued support."