The key facts

  • Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer; surgery removed the lower lobe of his left lung.
  • Histological examination confirmed a malignant tumor — an adenocarcinoma.
  • Recovery is expected to take about a week; all meetings are canceled until October 20.

Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer, the Holy See's press service reported.

The Pontiff underwent surgery during which the lower lobe of his left lung was removed. A histological examination confirmed the presence of a malignant tumor — an adenocarcinoma.

Initially, the surgery was planned: doctors intended to examine a growth found in the lung. After the operation, the Pope regained consciousness and has already been transferred from intensive care to a regular ward. The 71-year-old Leo XIV was operated on at the Agostino Gemelli University Hospital of the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart. The surgery lasted about 90 minutes, with no complications.

According to preliminary estimates, recovery will take about a week. All of the Pontiff's meetings have been canceled until October 20.