Pope Leo XIV Diagnosed With Lung Cancer After Successful Surgery

The Vatican confirms the Pope’s cancer diagnosis following an operation to remove part of his right lung.

Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer after undergoing surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, in a major health development that has drawn international attention and prompted prayers for the head of the Catholic Church.

According to a medical statement released by the Vatican, tests confirmed that the 71-year-old pontiff has pulmonary adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer. The diagnosis was confirmed during an operation on Tuesday, 13 October, to remove the lower lobe of his right lung.

What happened?

The Pope had previously disclosed that doctors had discovered a small, localised nodule in his lung during medical examinations. He said it had been detected at an early stage and that doctors recommended surgery.

The operation lasted approximately 90 minutes and was reported to have been successful, with no complications. Pope Leo regained consciousness normally and returned to his hospital room to recover.

The Vatican has said he is expected to remain in hospital for about a week. His public engagements have been cancelled through 20 October.

What does the diagnosis mean?

Pulmonary adenocarcinoma is a form of non-small-cell lung cancer. Although the affected portion of the Pope’s lung has been removed, the full outlook remains unclear because further details about the cancer’s stage and whether it has spread have not been publicly disclosed.

Doctors have not yet announced whether he will require additional treatment. It is therefore too early to draw firm conclusions about his long-term recovery.

What happens next?

Attention will now turn to the Pope’s recovery and any further updates from the Vatican. His health may also affect his planned visit to South America in November, although no final decision about that trip has been confirmed in the reports cited here.

Pope Leo XIV became leader of the Catholic Church in 2025. News of his diagnosis has prompted concern among Catholics and people around the world who are following his recovery.

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