Prince Philip was diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer in June 2013 and lived with the disease for nearly eight years before his death in April 2021, according to a new biography by royal historian Hugo Vickers. The revelation comes from Vickers' book, Queen Elizabeth II: A Personal History, which details the Duke of Edinburgh's final years and his quiet battle with the disease.
Core Facts and Immediate Action
Prince Philip, who died at the age of 99, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer during an 11-day hospital stay in 2013. His death certificate listed 'old age' as the cause of death, though Vickers' book confirms he had been living with the disease since his diagnosis. The book also reveals that Philip, on the night before his death, moved along a corridor with his Zimmer frame to pour himself a beer in the Oak Room. The following morning, he reportedly had a bath, said he did not feel well, and died peacefully.
Deeper Dive and Context
Survival and Prognosis
Pancreatic cancer is notoriously difficult to detect and has one of the lowest survival rates of any form of cancer. The average five-year survival rate in the UK is around 12 percent, with many patients dying within six months of diagnosis. Prince Philip's survival for nearly eight years is highly unusual and underscores the variability in how individuals respond to the disease.
Family History and Risk Factors
Around five to 10 percent of pancreatic cancer cases occur in people with a family history of the disease. Risk is higher if a first-degree relative is affected or if a close relative was diagnosed at a young age. While the book does not specify whether Prince Philip had a family history of pancreatic cancer, it highlights the importance of awareness and early recognition of the disease.
Final Moments and Legacy
Vickers' book also reveals that Queen Elizabeth II was not present when Prince Philip died. According to the historian, the Queen was 'absolutely furious' that Philip left without saying goodbye, a pattern that had occurred in earlier years as well. Philip had retired from public duties in 2017, roughly four years after his diagnosis, though the full extent of his health struggles was not publicly known.
Medical Details and Treatment
The book details that Philip underwent an abdominal operation in June 2013, during which doctors discovered a shadow on his pancreas. The cancer was deemed inoperable, and the procedure involved cutting across his stomach. Despite the grim prognosis, Philip lived far longer than the typical survival time from diagnosis.
Public Perception and Awareness
The revelation about Prince Philip's long battle with pancreatic cancer has sparked discussions about the disease's detection and treatment. His story highlights the importance of awareness and early recognition, as these factors can sometimes improve outcomes. The book also provides a personal glimpse into the Duke of Edinburgh's final years, offering a more intimate understanding of his resilience and quiet strength.