ROME — Pope Leo XIV is recovering at a Rome hospital after undergoing surgery that confirmed a lung cancer diagnosis, marking the first major health challenge of his papacy.
The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery Tuesday at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where doctors removed the lower lobe of his right lung after discovering a small nodule during routine medical examinations.
The Vatican confirmed that tissue examined during the operation revealed lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer. Doctors had suspected the diagnosis following earlier tests.
According to Vatican officials, the operation lasted approximately 90 minutes, with the pope spending about three hours in the operating room. The procedure was completed without complications, and Leo regained consciousness normally before returning to his hospital room.
The Vatican said Thursday that the pope continues to recover well. Blood tests and a chest X-ray conducted following the operation showed normal postoperative results.
Pope Revealed Health Concerns Days Before Surgery
Leo publicly disclosed the discovery of the lung nodule Sunday during his weekly Angelus prayer, telling worshippers that doctors had identified the abnormality at an early stage and recommended surgical removal.
The announcement surprised many Catholics, as the American-born pontiff has maintained an active public schedule since his election in May 2025.
On Tuesday, Leo arrived at Gemelli Hospital and greeted supporters gathered outside before undergoing the procedure.
The Vatican has canceled his public audiences through October 20 to allow him time to recover.
Doctors Await Additional Test Results
Although the surgery was successful, questions remain about the extent of the cancer and whether additional treatment will be necessary.
Doctors have not publicly disclosed the tumor’s precise size or whether cancer cells have spread to nearby lymph nodes. Those findings will help determine the stage of the disease and whether further treatment is recommended.
Medical experts say patients whose lung cancer is discovered and surgically removed before it spreads can have a favorable prognosis. However, Leo’s long-term outlook will depend on the results of additional testing.
Vatican officials have not announced plans for chemotherapy or other cancer treatments.
Upcoming International Trip Faces Uncertainty
The hospitalization has also raised questions about Leo’s upcoming visit to South America, scheduled for November 6 through November 17.
The trip is expected to include stops in Uruguay, Argentina and Peru, countries with significant Catholic populations and strong connections to the pontiff’s pastoral work.
The Vatican has not formally canceled the visit, although the pope’s recovery and medical recommendations could affect his ability to travel.
Leo, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, became the first American pope following the death of Pope Francis in 2025. Born in Chicago, he spent years serving as a missionary and church leader in Peru before assuming senior leadership positions at the Vatican.
His current hospitalization comes relatively early in a pontificate that has emphasized dialogue, international peace and unity within the Catholic Church.
For now, attention remains focused on the pope’s recovery as Catholics around the world await further medical updates from the Vatican.
