Health · 2026-10-14 · Afternoon briefing

Pope Leo XIV recovering after lung cancer surgery

Pope Leo XIV, aged 71, is recovering in Rome's Gemelli Hospital following a 90-minute surgery on Tuesday. The procedure removed a nodular lesion from his right lung, during which he was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a form of cancer that accounts for about 40% of all lung cancer cases.

The Vatican described the operation as successful and without complications. An update on Wednesday confirmed his post-operative course is normal, with the pontiff resuming a regular diet, walking, and undergoing respiratory physiotherapy. He is expected to remain in hospital for a week, and all his audiences through October 20th have been cancelled.

While fewer than 5% of such nodules are typically found to be malignant, the diagnosis prompted a swift response. The Vatican's relative transparency on the matter contrasts with its usual reticence regarding papal health, a subject often shrouded in secrecy.

Summary written by Cup of News with AI from the sources below. Check the originals for the full story.

Read the sources

• Pope Leo recovery 'proceeding as expected' following surgery to remove part of his lung with cancerous growth
• Pope Leo is eating and recovering after cancer surgery, his doctors say
• Pope Leo XIV’s Health: Updates on the Pontiff’s Lung Cancer Diagnosis & Surgery
• Pope Leo XIV Has Part of Lung Removed in Cancer Surgery
• Pope Leo spends a peaceful night in the hospital after cancer surgery

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