Vatican reports Pope Leo recovering after lung cancer surgery

Pope Leo spent a peaceful night in the hospital following surgery to treat lung cancer, according to an announcement from the Vatican on October 14. The 71-year-old pontiff underwent the procedure on October 13 after a routine health check revealed a growth.

The surgical team, led by Stefano Margaritora and personal physician Luigi Carbone, performed a 90-minute operation to remove the lower lobe of the pope’s right lung. The medical team confirmed that the procedure was completed without complications and was intended to eliminate all cancerous tissue. The diagnosis was identified as lung adenocarcinoma, which is the most common form of the disease.

The Vatican has not yet provided details regarding the size of the tumor or whether the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes. Such information is considered critical for determining the long-term prognosis of the condition. Further updates on the pope’s recovery are expected to be released throughout the day.

Pope Leo, who was elected by the world’s cardinals in May 2025, is considered relatively young for a Church leader. Known for his interest in sports such as tennis, he is currently expected to remain hospitalized for approximately one week.

In light of the surgery and the recovery period, the Vatican has cancelled all of the pope’s public engagements until October 20. The medical staff continues to monitor his condition as he begins his post-operative care at Rome’s Gemelli hospital.