A global shock was caused by the confession of the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, that she has been diagnosed with cancer after the major surgery she underwent and has already started chemotherapy.

Sitting on a bench and wearing a white sweater with black stripes, Kate spoke for two minutes and 16 seconds about her health problem.

Check out this Instagram post.

This post was shared by The Prince and Princess of Wales (@princeandprincessofwales)

But what do we know so far about Kate’s health?

When was the cancer found?

The princess underwent surgery last January. The palace did not reveal details at the time, but said the procedure was planned and her condition was “not cancer-related”.

Her message in the video says that the tests done after the operation found that cancer was present.

What kind of cancer does the princess have?

Kensington Palace has not said what type of cancer she has.

A spokesperson said: “We will not share any further private medical information. The princess has a right to medical privacy just like the rest of us.”

What is preventive chemotherapy?

Princess Kate said her medical team has advised her to undergo “preventive chemotherapy” and that she is in the early stages of that treatment. Chemotherapy is a general term for medication that kills cancer cells – it can be given as drops or in pill form.

Professor Andrew Beggs, consultant colon surgeon, said: “Preventive chemotherapy after surgery is given to reduce the risk of the cancer coming back in the future.”

How often it is needed depends on the type of cancer and how it is growing.

How did doctors find the cancer?

After the surgery in January, which Kensington Palace said was a success, doctors ran tests that revealed cancer was present. Usually, the tissue removed during surgery is sent to a lab for analysis to see what cells are there.

Does he receive treatment privately or in a clinic?

Kate Middleton’s initial surgery was performed at the private London Clinic. But the Palace did not comment on where he is now being cared for. In her message, Kate thanked the “fantastic medical team” she described for treating her.