A North East doctor has urged anyone concerned with any cancer symptoms to contact their GP following the diagnosis of King Charles III this week.

Catching cancer early "saves lives" is the message from Dr Neil O'Brien, medical director at North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) following the monarch's diagnosis.

Buckingham Palace first announced the diagnosis of the King, 75, on Monday (February 5) who remains "wholly positive" about his diagnosis and has began treatment.

The Northern Echo: King Charles seen in public on February 6.King Charles seen in public on February 6.

A statement said: “During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.

“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties.

“Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.

“The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure.

“His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”

Today (February 5), Charles and the Queen were seen when they were driven away from their London residence to Buckingham Palace, before being flown by helicopter to Sandringham in Norfolk.

Now, charities and health officials have came out in support of the monarch as well as urging the public to take advantage of programs and tests available in the North East.

The Northern Echo: King Charles.King Charles.

Dr Neil O'Brien, medical director at North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) said: "We would always encourage anyone who is concerned that they may have symptoms to contact their GP and get checked out.

"It may well be nothing to worry about, but catching cancer early makes a big difference and we know it saves lives.

"Across the region we have a wide range of programmes working towards earlier diagnosis - from breast, bowel and cervical screening to targeted lung health checks smokers and ex-smokers.

"If you are invited to for any screening appointments, it is really important to attend and take up the offer."

Chiara De Biase, Director of Support and Influencing at Prostate Cancer UK said: "The King’s openness and honesty in announcing his treatment for an enlarged prostate raised vital awareness about the condition.

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"We saw a 500% increase in people coming to our website for information and support in the week following the news, and an impact in men looking to learn more about their prostate and prostate cancer, with an increase in men taking our 30-second online risk checker.  

"It’s important to remember that an enlarged prostate is very common in men over 50. It isn’t caused by cancer, and it doesn’t increase your risk of getting prostate cancer. "