Sarah Ferguson in breast cancer scare

Prince Andrew’s ex-wife is told her prognosis is good as the cancer was detected early and she has undergone surgery.

Sarah Ferguson has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Picture: Getty Images.

Prince Andrew’s ex-wife Sarah Ferguson has been diagnosed with breast cancer and has undergone surgery as part of her treatment.

The Duchess of York, 63, revealed she is now back at home in Windsor recovering from the operation which was conducted at the central London private hospital, King Edward VII, last week.

Her family, including Prince Andrew, with whom she resides at Royal Lodge, and her daughters Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice have been providing support.

Friends have told the Sun newspaper the operation was successful and the Duchess, also known as “Fergie” has been told the prognosis is good because it was detected early.

The breast cancer was picked up during routine mammogram screening. Under the National Health Service women over 55 receive a free breast screen every three years.

Sarah Ferguson and Prince Andrew during the Coronation Concert in May. Picture: Getty Image.

A spokesman for the Duchess said: “Sarah, Duchess of York was recently diagnosed with an early form of breast cancer detected at a routine mammogram screening.

“She was advised she needed to undergo surgery which has taken place successfully.

“The Duchess is receiving the best medical care and her doctors have told her that the prognosis is good. She is now recuperating with her family.

“The Duchess wants to express her immense gratitude to all the medical staff who have supported her in recent days.

“She is also hugely thankful to the staff involved in the mammogram which identified her illness, which was otherwise symptom free, and believes her experience underlines the importance of regular screening.”

Fergie was not invited to King Charles’ coronation, but was a guest at the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, with whom she had a great friendship. She has been looking after the late Queen’s corgis. She would also have normally attended Royal Ascot, but was absent this year.