Read Princess Catherine's full statement on her cancer diagnosis

The Princess of Wales announced in a video on Friday that she is undergoing preventative chemotherapy.

She began the treatment after tests performed in the wake ofher abdominalsurgery in January revealed that cancer had been present.

Catherine has been out of the public spotlight since the procedure, prompting speculation about her whereabouts and her condition.

WATCH |Catherine, Princess of Wales, reveals she is undergoingcancer treatment:

Princess of Wales says she's receiving cancer treatment

6 months ago

Duration 2:20

Catherine, the Princess of Wales, says in a video released to her social media pages that tests after her surgery revealed 'cancer had been present,' and that she is in the early stages of preventive chemotherapy.

Read the full statement below:

"I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you, personally, for all the wonderful messages of support and for your understanding whilst I have been recovering from surgery.

"It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family, but I've had a fantastic medical team who have taken great care of me, for which I am so grateful.

"In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful. However, tests after theoperation 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.

"This of course came as a huge shock, and [my husband Prince] William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.

"As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment. But, most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to [my children] George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be OK.

"As I have said to them: I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal, in my mind, body and spirits.

"Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance, too. As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.

"We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy, and I look forward to being back when I am able. But for now I must focus on making a full recovery.

"At this time, I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer. Foreveryone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone."