Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, 52, is likely to need a lung transplant due to the progression of her health condition, the Norwegian royal household announced. The princess was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2018, a degenerative disease that causes scar tissue to form in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe and preventing oxygen from entering the bloodstream.
Recent tests conducted in the autumn revealed a significant decline in her health. “We are reaching the point where a lung transplant will be necessary,” stated Are Martin Holm, head of respiratory medicine at Oslo University Hospital.
Princess Mette-Marit expressed to Norwegian broadcaster NRK that her condition had progressed “faster than I’d hoped.” However, a decision has not yet been made about her placement on the transplant waiting list. Dr. Holm indicated that while she is not currently listed, preparations are underway to assess her eligibility for a transplant should it become necessary.
In Norway, there are typically 20 to 40 people on the lung transplant waiting list at any given time, and the princess would not receive preferential treatment if she were to be added. Her medical team is taking steps to ensure that a transplant could be carried out when the time arrives. The royal household confirmed that Princess Mette-Marit has an increased need for rest and has begun a targeted exercise regimen to help manage her condition. Despite her health challenges, she has expressed a strong desire to continue fulfilling her royal duties, which will be adapted to accommodate her ongoing medical needs.
Dr. Holm described pulmonary fibrosis as a “dangerous disease,” noting that symptoms are often not visible. Patients may appear fine while resting but struggle to breathe during physical exertion. The condition has affected Princess Mette-Marit’s ability to engage in activities she once enjoyed, such as hiking and skiing with her husband, Crown Prince Haakon, who has noticed her increased difficulty breathing and reduced energy levels.
The prospect of a lung transplant has been emotionally taxing for the princess, who acknowledged the risks involved. A successful transplant depends on several factors, including finding a suitable donor and preventing the body from rejecting the new organ. Dr. Holm emphasized that a transplant is considered a last resort and is typically recommended only when a patient is severely ill with a limited life expectancy.
This news comes months after a difficult period for the Norwegian royal family, as Princess Mette-Marit’s eldest son, Marius Borg Høiby, 28, faced legal charges, including four counts of rape. Høiby denies the most serious accusations but has indicated that he will plead guilty to lesser charges when the trial begins.
Princess Mette-Marit’s ongoing health struggles, combined with the legal challenges faced by her family, mark a challenging time for the Norwegian royal household.
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