Pope Leo XIV Undergoes Lung Surgery for Cancer Treatment

Pope Leo XIV underwent lung surgery at Agostino Gemelli University Hospital in Rome to remove a small nodule. The Vatican confirmed the 71-year-old pontiff had thoracic surgery to take out the lower lobe of his right lung after doctors diagnosed lung adenocarcinoma.

The diagnosis was verified by a tissue examination during surgery, aligning with earlier tests. The pope spent about three hours in the operating room, although the surgery lasted 90 minutes. Doctors declared the surgery successful without complications.

Health Director Andrea Cambieri welcomed Pope Leo XIV to the Gemelli University Hospital for the operation. The pope awoke normally post-surgery and returned to his hospital room following a brief observation.

“Doctors found a small lump in the lung,” Pope Leo XIV stated after an Angelus address at St. Peter’s Square. “It was identified at an early stage and is well situated. Taking the advice of my doctors, I opted for surgery.” The procedure was confirmed to involve the removal of the lower lobe of his right lung using a video-assisted technique.

This news was unexpected for the American-born pope, who has no known health issues and is known for an active lifestyle. He plays tennis and swims at the papal retreat in Castel Gandolfo.

Despite the surgery, Pope Leo XIV has a major international trip planned from November 6-17, including Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. It’s uncertain if his recovery will impact these plans.

Addressing his health publicly, Leo XIV renewed his call for peace in Ukraine during his Sunday remarks. He warned that the ongoing conflict’s effects extend beyond Ukraine’s borders, particularly in poorer countries that rely on cereal and grain exports.