Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma after surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung, leaving questions about the extent of the cancer, his recovery and whether he will proceed with a scheduled South America tour next month.
Pope Leo XIV Undergoes Successful Lung Cancer Surgery
The Vatican confirmed the diagnosis in a medical bulletin Tuesday, saying tissue tests conducted during surgery confirmed doctors’ earlier suspicions, Reuters reported.
The 90-minute procedure at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital was completed without complications, according to his lead surgeon, Dr. Stefano Margaritora and personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone.
The doctors said the lower lobe of the Pope’s right lung was removed using a video-assisted technique intended to eliminate the cancerous tissue.
The Pope regained consciousness normally after surgery and returned to his hospital room to rest. The Vatican previously said he was expected to remain hospitalized for about a week. His public engagements have been canceled through Oct. 20.
Cancer Stage Remains Unclear
Although the surgery was successful, the extent of the 71-year-old pontiff’s cancer remains unknown. The Vatican has not disclosed the tumor’s size or whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes, critical details in determining his prognosis.
Lung cancer specialist Dr. Stephen Liu of Georgetown University in Washington told the publication that the cancer’s stage remains undetermined, making it difficult to assess the Pope’s prognosis.
He noted that surgery could be curative if the tumor is small and has not spread to the lymph nodes, while more extensive cancer involvement would point to a less favorable outlook.
Lung adenocarcinoma is a common form of lung cancer. The diagnosis alone does not show whether the disease has spread or whether additional treatment is needed.
November South America Tour in Question
The Pope, elected in May 2025, is scheduled to visit Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from Nov. 6-17. It remains unclear whether he can make the 11-day trip.
The Chicago-born Pope previously spent decades as a missionary and bishop in Peru. He has maintained a demanding schedule and is known to enjoy sports, including tennis.
His predecessor, Pope Francis, experienced repeated hospitalizations in his later years and died at age 88 in April 2025.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo Courtesy: Riccardo De Luca via Shutterstock.com
Recent Comments