Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer following a successful operation to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, the Vatican has announced, raising concerns about the health of the leader of the world’s Catholic Church.
The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Tuesday, October 13, after doctors discovered a suspicious growth in his lung during routine medical examinations.
According to a medical bulletin released by the Vatican, tissue examinations conducted during the operation confirmed that the growth was lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer.
The Vatican said the surgery was completed successfully without complications, adding that the Pope regained consciousness normally after the procedure and returned to his hospital room following a brief period of observation.
The operation itself lasted approximately 90 minutes, although the Pope spent about three hours in the operating room.
The procedure was led by Professor Stefano Margaritora, head of thoracic surgery at Gemelli Hospital, alongside the pontiff’s personal physician, Dr Luigi Carbone.
The medical team removed the lower lobe of the right lung using a video-assisted surgical technique intended to remove the cancerous tissue.
The diagnosis followed earlier medical tests that had raised suspicions about the nature of the lung growth.
However, the Vatican has not yet provided a detailed assessment of the cancer’s stage or confirmed whether it had spread beyond the affected area.
The extent of any further treatment required will depend on additional medical assessments and the results of examinations on the removed tissue.
The development comes after Pope Leo informed worshippers on Sunday that he would undergo surgery to remove a small, localised lung nodule. The announcement prompted concern among Catholics and other observers about his health.
The pontiff was admitted to Gemelli Hospital on Tuesday for the planned procedure, attracting the attention of supporters and well-wishers who gathered outside the medical facility.
The Vatican had earlier cancelled the Pope’s public engagements through October 20 to allow him to undergo treatment and recover.
Officials have indicated that he is expected to remain in hospital for approximately one week, although his recovery will be monitored by his medical team.
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, became the first American pope when he was elected in May 2025 following the death of Pope Francis.
His diagnosis represents a significant health challenge early in his papacy, although the successful operation offers a measure of reassurance.
Medical experts generally note that surgery can be an effective treatment for lung adenocarcinoma when the disease is localised and suitable for removal.
However, the prognosis depends on factors including the cancer’s stage, whether it has spread and the patient’s overall health.
The Vatican has not announced a definitive long-term treatment plan for the pontiff.
Meanwhile, Catholics around the world are expected to continue offering prayers for his recovery as he rests in hospital.
The Pope’s medical team is expected to provide further updates as his postoperative recovery progresses. His health condition could also influence his ability to resume public engagements and fulfil upcoming international commitments.
