Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s health has “got worse” after appearance wearing oxygen device

Princess Mette-Marit of Norway has faced renewed concern over her health after Crown Prince Haakon revealed that her condition has deteriorated further, describing a worrying decline in recent months.

The update comes shortly after the Crown Princess was seen making a public appearance wearing a nasal oxygen device, a detail that quickly drew attention from royal watchers and the public. The visible use of medical support has intensified concern about the progression of her long-term illness.

Mette-Marit, 51, has been living with pulmonary fibrosis, a chronic and progressive lung disease that causes scarring of the lungs and increasingly difficult breathing. The condition has no known cure and typically worsens over time, requiring ongoing treatment and careful medical monitoring.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Crown Prince Haakon acknowledged the seriousness of his wife’s condition, offering a rare and candid update on her health. He said that the Crown Princess had “got worse,” noting that her illness has continued to progress despite treatment.

“The Crown Princess is gravely ill, and I find that her condition has deteriorated significantly recently,” he said. He also added that he remains deeply concerned for her wellbeing as she continues to manage the effects of the disease in her daily life.

He further explained that she is now using oxygen support on a daily basis, describing it as something that provides partial relief but is not a complete solution to her breathing difficulties.

“So, I’m worried about her health. She uses oxygen daily, and that helps a bit, but it’s obviously not an entirely satisfactory solution,” he said.

The Crown Princess was first diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2018. Since then, her condition has gradually affected her ability to carry out official royal duties, often forcing her to take extended breaks from public engagements or reduce her workload significantly.

In recent months, her health has reportedly worsened further, leading to increased reliance on medical assistance. Her public appearance earlier this month, in which she was seen using an oxygen device, served as a visible reminder of the challenges she is facing.

The Norwegian royal household has previously acknowledged the seriousness of her condition, stating in December that she may eventually require a lung transplant, depending on how the disease progresses.

Despite her health struggles, Crown Princess Mette-Marit has continued to make occasional appearances when possible, though her schedule remains limited. Her situation has drawn sympathy both within Norway and internationally, with many expressing concern over her long-term wellbeing.

Beyond her health issues, the Crown Princess has also experienced a difficult period in her personal life. Documents released earlier this year revealed her past friendship and contact with convicted US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein between 2011 and 2014, a matter that has resurfaced in public discussion.

In addition, her son, Marius Borg Høiby, from a previous relationship, has been facing legal proceedings involving more than 40 charges, including allegations of rape, which he denies. He has, however, pleaded guilty to lesser offences such as traffic violations. A verdict in his case is expected on June 15.

These developments have added further scrutiny and pressure on the Norwegian royal family during an already challenging period.

As concern continues to grow around the Crown Princess’s health, royal observers say the focus remains on her treatment and quality of life, with many hoping her condition can be managed as effectively as possible in the months ahead.