Pope Leo XIV Diagnosed with Lung Cancer, Undergoes Surgery
Vatican confirms pontiff's condition and successful operation, with recovery underway amid canceled audiences and upcoming travel plans.
Carla Rooney
Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer.
Dr. Luigi Carbone and Dr. Stefano Margaritora confirmed the Holy Father underwent respiratory physiotherapy and has begun walking in his room. He resumed his regular diet and had breakfast and lunch.
The surgery, which reportedly took "place on Tuesday at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, involved doctors removing the lower lobe of his right lung.
Surgeons also removed select lymph nodes for evaluation; the Vatican press office pointed to the medical report's mention of a "radical" removal of the lobe.
A radical removal of the lobe.
This procedure, a lobectomy, is considered the preferred treatment for cancer confined to a single lobe. The surgery reportedly lasted approximately 90 minutes with no complications.
The Medical Team claims the American pope has lung adenocarcinoma.
Specialists claim additional testing is required to determine whether the disease has spread or demands further treatment. Vatican Officials state doctors are waiting for full test results before deciding on a subsequent treatment path.
The Vatican has cleared Leo’s official schedule through October 20. The Pope is expected to remain in the hospital for about a week.
Pope Leo XIV announced on Sunday that doctors had discovered a nodule, despite his active lifestyle which includes weekly tennis games and swimming.
Pope Leo XIV, an Augustinian, was elected the first US-born leader of the Roman Catholic church in May 2025. He has a planned trip to South America in November, including Peru.