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Pope Leo XIV undergoes successful surgery for lung cancer at Rome's Gemelli Hospital
Overview
Pope Leo XIV has been successfully treated for lung cancer after undergoing a 90-minute operation at Rome's Gemelli Hospital to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. The 71-year-old pontiff was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma after doctors discovered a nodule during pre-operative checks. The Vatican stated the surgery had no complications and the Pope is expected to remain hospitalised for about a week to recover.
Key points
- Pope Leo XIV had a successful 90-minute surgery at Rome's Gemelli Hospital to remove the lower lobe of his right lung.
- Post-surgery tests confirmed a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, a common type of cancer typically found in the outer part of the organ.
- The Vatican reported no complications during the operation, and the Pope had a peaceful night in hospital following the procedure.
- The pontiff's schedule has been cleared until 20 October to allow for his recovery ahead of a planned trip to Latin America in early November.
- The Pope previously announced the nodule himself during Sunday prayers, noting it was caught early and well-contained.