Pope Leo XIV Undergoes Successful Lung Surgery as Cancer Diagnosis Is Confirmed

Pope Leo XIV has undergone successful surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after doctors discovered a localised nodule, with an examination during the operation confirming lung adenocarcinoma, the Vatican has announced.

The 71-year-old pontiff underwent the procedure on Tuesday, October 13, at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital in Rome.

The Holy See Press Office initially said the operation had been completed successfully, within the expected timeframe and as planned, adding that the Pope had returned to his hospital room.

In a subsequent medical update on Wednesday, October 14, Vatican News reported that an examination of the tissue during surgery confirmed the diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, as suspected from pre-operative tests.

Vatican Reports Positive Recovery

According to the Vatican’s latest update, Pope Leo’s recovery was progressing normally following the operation.

Post-operative blood tests and a chest X-ray showed results within the expected range for the procedure. He had also begun respiratory physiotherapy, started walking around his hospital room and resumed eating normally.

The Vatican said the Pope was expected to remain at Gemelli Hospital for approximately one week, although his subsequent treatment plan had not yet been disclosed.

Pope Had Announced Lung Nodule Before Surgery

The Pope announced on Sunday, October 11, that doctors had discovered a small, localised nodule in his lung during recent medical examinations.

Addressing worshippers during the Angelus at the Vatican, he said the growth had been detected at an early stage and that his doctors had recommended surgery to remove it.

He thanked Catholics and others for their support and asked them to pray for him ahead of the procedure.

Following the discovery, the pontiff decided to follow his doctors’ recommendation and proceed with the operation.

Further Tests Expected

The surgery confirmed the diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer. Further examination of the removed tissue is expected to help doctors assess the condition and determine whether additional treatment will be required.

The Vatican has not yet announced a complete treatment plan.

The development has drawn attention from Catholics and religious leaders around the world, with prayers and messages of support continuing to arrive as the Pope recovers.

Pope Leo XIV was elected head of the Catholic Church on May 8, 2025. His recovery and any further treatment are expected to inform decisions about his upcoming public engagements.