Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer after undergoing surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, the Vatican has confirmed.

The 71-year-old leader of the Catholic Church underwent the operation at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, after doctors discovered a small, localised nodule in his lung.

According to a medical statement released by the Vatican, tests conducted during the operation confirmed that the growth was lung adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer.

Vatican Confirms Successful Surgery

The Vatican said the surgery lasted approximately 90 minutes and was completed successfully without complications.

Doctors removed the lower lobe of the Pope’s right lung using a video-assisted surgical technique. The procedure was intended to remove the cancerous tissue.

Following the operation, Pope Leo XIV regained consciousness normally and returned to his hospital room after a period of observation.

The Vatican also reported that the Pope had a calm night following the surgery and was resting in hospital.

Pope Expected to Remain in Hospital

Pope Leo XIV is expected to remain at Gemelli Hospital for approximately one week as he recovers from the operation.

The Vatican has cancelled his public engagements through October 20, allowing him time to recuperate.

Further medical examinations are expected to provide additional information about the removed tissue. However, the Vatican has not yet announced the cancer’s stage or provided details about any further treatment that may be required.

Doctors generally need additional information, including whether cancer has spread beyond the original tumour, to assess the outlook and determine the appropriate treatment.

Pope Had Earlier Announced Lung Surgery

Before the operation, Pope Leo XIV informed worshippers that doctors had discovered a small, localised nodule in his lung during medical examinations.

He explained that the growth had been detected at an early stage and that his doctors recommended surgery to remove it.

The announcement raised concern among Catholics and other people around the world who have followed his leadership since he became Pope in May 2025.

Prayers and Support for Pope Leo XIV

News of the diagnosis has drawn attention to the Pope’s recovery and future public engagements.

Catholics around the world are watching for further updates from the Vatican as he recuperates.

For now, the Vatican has confirmed that the operation was successful, but important details about the stage of the cancer and the next steps in his medical care remain unknown.

The Holy See is expected to provide further updates as more information becomes available.

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