Pope Leo is eating, celebrating Mass and walking after cancer surgery, but trip is in question: news

Pope Leo XIV Recovers After Lung Cancer Surgery as Latin America Trip Remains in Question

Pope Leo XIV is making steady progress following surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma. According to the Vatican and medical staff at Rome’s Gemelli Polyclinic, the 71-year-old pontiff is eating regular meals, walking around his room, undergoing respiratory physiotherapy, and celebrating Mass from a private chapel on the hospital’s 10th floor.

Medical Update and Post-Operative Recovery

Medical bulletins issued by personal physician Dr. Luigi Carbone and thoracic surgeon Dr. Stefano Margaritora indicate that post-operative recovery is proceeding as planned. Routine blood tests and chest X-rays have shown normal levels.

Pathology results and lymph node biopsies remain pending to establish the exact cancer stage and determine whether post-surgical treatmentssuch as targeted therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapywill be necessary.

Status of the November Papal Visit

While the Vatican has canceled papal audiences through late October, questions remain regarding the pontiff’s scheduled November 6–17 apostolic journey to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru.

• Itinerary scope: The proposed tour spans over 31,000 kilometers (19,000 miles) and includes a dozen flights, helicopter transfers, and significant high-altitude stops in Peru.

  The Malta Independent

• Travel restrictions: Medical specialists often advise patients against flying for three weeks following thoracic lobectomies.

  KTVN

• Official statements: Peruvian officials and medical observers have acknowledged that schedule adjustments or postponements may be required depending on staging results and full recovery timelines.

  The Malta Independent