Pope Leo XIV diagnosed with lung cancer following surgery

Pope Leo XIV underwent successful surgery on Tuesday at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. The procedure, which lasted approximately 90 minutes, was performed by a team led by the hospital’s chief thoracic surgeon, Dr. Stefano Margaritora. The Vatican reported that the 71-year-old pontiff remained in the operating room for a total of three hours and experienced no complications.

Medical tests conducted during the operation confirmed a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, a finding that had been suspected based on preoperative examinations. The Vatican described the procedure as a "radical" resection, noting that doctors removed all suspect tissue in an effort to eliminate any lingering traces of the cancer. The pontiff is expected to remain in the hospital for approximately one week to recover.

The diagnosis follows a period of unusual transparency regarding the Pope's health. During his Sunday noon prayer in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope personally announced the discovery of a small, localized nodule and his decision to undergo surgery. Prior to the operation on Tuesday, he was seen walking into the hospital through the main entrance, where he waved to well-wishers.

As of now, the Vatican has not provided details regarding future treatment plans. Officials stated that doctors are not currently discussing chemotherapy or other therapies while they await the results of additional tests. These further evaluations include the examination of lymph nodes removed during the surgery to determine if the cancer has spread.

In response to the medical procedure, the Vatican has cancelled all of the Pope's scheduled audiences through October 20. Medical experts have noted that adenocarcinoma is a common form of lung cancer and, when addressed at an early stage, can carry a favorable prognosis. The Pope has returned to his room on the 10th floor of the hospital following a brief period of observation.