Pope Leo XIV Diagnosed With Lung Cancer After Surgery To Remove Part Of His Right Lung

Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.

Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a form of lung cancer, following surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, the Vatican has confirmed.

The 71-year-old pontiff underwent the operation on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, after doctors discovered a small, localised nodule in his lung during recent medical examinations. Tests conducted during the procedure confirmed the cancer diagnosis.

The operation was led by Professor Stefano Margaritora, Gemelli Hospital’s chief thoracic surgeon. The procedure lasted approximately 90 minutes and was completed without complications, according to reports.

Lung adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that develops in glandular cells, including cells lining the lungs. The outlook depends on factors such as the size of the tumour, whether the cancer has spread and the results of further medical examinations.

The Vatican has not disclosed the stage of the cancer or provided a detailed prognosis. Further treatment decisions are expected to depend on additional medical assessments.

Pope Leo had announced on Sunday, October 11, that doctors had discovered a small, localised lung nodule and recommended its removal. The Vatican subsequently confirmed that he would undergo surgery.

The pontiff is expected to remain at Gemelli Hospital for about a week to recover. His public engagements have been suspended through October 20, while uncertainty remains over whether his planned November visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru will proceed as scheduled.

The diagnosis has drawn concern from Catholics and religious communities around the world, with many awaiting further updates on the Pope’s condition and recovery.

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, became the leader of the Catholic Church in May 2025.

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