LONDON — Prince Philip, the 98-year-old husband of Queen Elizabeth II of Britain, was taken to a hospital in London on Friday as a precautionary measure to treat a pre-existing condition, Buckingham Palace said in a statement.

“The Duke of Edinburgh traveled from Norfolk this morning to the King Edward VII Hospital in London for observation and treatment,” the palace said, using the official royal title for Prince Philip. “The admission is a precautionary measure, on the advice of His Royal Highness’ Doctor.”

The confidential, private King Edward VII Hospital in London has treated members of the monarchy for decades. Prince Philip walked into hospital, the BBC reported.

Philip, who has been dealing with a series of health issues and underwent hip surgery at the hospital last year, announced in May 2017 that he would retire from public life. No reason was given at the time for his decision.