Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit is expected to undergo a lung transplant following a recent decline in her health, the Royal Palace has announced.
In a statement released on Thursday, the palace said medical assessments conducted over the autumn showed a clear deterioration in the condition of the 52-year-old, who was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2018. The chronic disease causes progressive scarring of the lungs, making breathing increasingly difficult.
“It has not yet been decided when the Crown Princess will be placed on the transplant waiting list,” the palace said, adding that her medical team is closely monitoring her condition.
Professor Are Martin Holm of the pulmonary unit at Oslo University Hospital confirmed that preparations for a transplant are already underway.
“We are approaching the time when a lung transplant will be necessary, and we are making the required preparations so that it can be carried out when the time comes,” he said.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit, the wife of Crown Prince Haakon and heir to the Norwegian throne, has gradually reduced her public engagements in recent years due to health challenges linked to the illness.
The announcement has sparked widespread concern across Norway, with many citizens and public figures expressing support as the country awaits further updates on her condition.