Pope Leo diagnosed with lung cancer and has part of right lung removed, Vatican says: news

Pope Leo XIV Diagnosed with Lung Cancer: Vatican Confirms Surgery to Remove Part of Right Lung

VATICAN CITY Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer after undergoing surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, during which surgeons successfully removed the lower lobe of his right lung, the Holy See announced.

The medical procedure confirmed a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, a prevalent form of non-small cell lung cancer that had been suspected following recent routine medical check-ups.

Surgical Details and Immediate Recovery

The 90-minute operation was conducted by a surgical team led by Professor Stefano Margaritora, director of thoracic surgery at Gemelli Hospital. According to the Vatican’s medical bulletin, the surgical team utilized a minimally invasive, video-assisted thoracic technique aimed at complete curative resection of the malignant tissue.

The Vatican confirmed that the procedure concluded without complications. Pope Leo woke normally from anesthesia and is currently resting in his private hospital suite.

Prognosis and Papal Schedule

The pontiff is expected to remain hospitalized for approximately one week for post-operative monitoring and recovery. All official papal audiences and public engagements have been cancelled through at least October 20.

Medical specialists noted that long-term prognosis and potential post-surgical treatments will depend on comprehensive pathology reports assessing tumor staging and lymph node involvement. While the pontiff maintains an active scheduleincluding an upcoming 11-day apostolic journey to South America scheduled for NovemberVatican officials have not yet confirmed whether the travel itinerary will proceed as planned.