Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer after undergoing successful surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, the Vatican has announced.
The 71-year-old pontiff underwent a 90-minute operation at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Tuesday. He was subsequently diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that develops in glandular cells. In a medical bulletin, the Vatican said the procedure was successful and there were no complications. The Pope reportedly woke up normally after surgery and returned to his room following a brief period of observation.
The Vatican added on Wednesday that the pontiff had enjoyed a peaceful night and was expected to remain in hospital for approximately one week. The lung growth was initially detected during what the Vatican described as routine medical checks. According to the statement, doctors removed the entire lower lobe of his right lung to ensure the procedure was thorough.
A Vatican source told Agence France-Presse that further tests were being conducted to determine whether the cancer had spread beyond the lung.
Pope Announces Surgery Before Hospital Admission
Pope Leo disclosed his upcoming operation on Sunday while addressing worshippers in St Peter’s Square during the traditional Angelus blessing. He said the nodule on his lung had been detected at an early stage and was contained, but doctors had recommended its removal.
The Vatican has said the pontiff, who is generally considered to be in good health, had not displayed symptoms of an infection or other illness. Cardinal Kikuchi Tarcisio Isao of Tokyo, who met the Pope on Monday, said the pontiff had reported feeling physically well. He added that Leo decided to undergo the procedure promptly because he hoped to maintain plans for a Latin American tour in early November.
The planned trip is particularly significant because it includes Peru, where Leo spent many years as a missionary and later served as a bishop. The Pope’s schedule has been cleared until October 20 to allow time for his recovery.
Catholics Express Concern Over Pope’s Health
News of the diagnosis has prompted concern among Catholics and other observers worldwide. Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin described the announcement as a shock but said the cardinals had been encouraged by the Pope’s calm response.
Outside Gemelli Hospital, Catholics gathered to offer prayers and express support for the pontiff. One woman, Carla, told the BBC that the Pope’s calm demeanour had helped reassure those waiting for news of his condition. Another worshipper, Elsa, said she had been surprised by the announcement, having expected the pontiff to be healthier because of his age.
The Vatican has not yet provided further details about the cancer’s stage or whether additional treatment will be required following surgery. For now, the focus remains on the Pope’s recovery and the results of tests to determine whether the disease has spread.
