Pope Leo XIV Diagnosed With Lung Cancer Following Successful Surgery in Rome

Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma following a successful surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, according to an official medical bulletin released by the Vatican. The 71-year-old pontiff underwent a 90-minute procedure on Tuesday at Rome's Gemelli Hospital after a growth was discovered during routine health checks.

Vatican officials stated that the entire lower lobe of the Pope's right lung was removed to ensure a radical procedure. Following the operation, Pope Leo awoke normally and was moved to his room on the hospital's 10th floor after a brief period of observation. A Vatican source indicated that further medical tests are underway to determine if there is any indication that the cancer has spread.

Early Detection and Medical Schedule

The pontiff personally shared news of his upcoming operation during his weekly Angelus blessing in St. Peter's Square on Sunday. At the time, he noted that the nodule was contained and detected at a very early stage, but doctors recommended its surgical removal. Subsequent examination of the tissue confirmed the diagnosis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma, which had been suspected during pre-operative evaluations.

To allow full recovery time, the Vatican has cleared the Pope's public schedule until October 20. Cardinal Kikuchi Tarcisio Isao of Tokyo revealed that Pope Leo chose to undergo the procedure promptly to maintain his planned travel schedule to Latin America in early November. The upcoming itinerary includes a visit to Peru, where the pontiff previously served as a missionary and bishop.

Reactions from the Vatican and the Faithful

Despite assurances that the Pope remains generally fit and asymptomatic regarding infections, the news prompted widespread reaction. Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Parolin described the announcement as unexpected but expressed confidence in the pontiff's recovery, noting the calm demeanor demonstrated by the Pope prior to the procedure.

Well-wishers gathered outside Gemelli Hospital as the Pope arrived on Tuesday morning, greeting him as his car entered the medical complex. Hospital staff met the pontiff upon his arrival, where he shared brief smiles with supporters and medical personnel before entering the facility.