The Vatican has officially confirmed that Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer. The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli University Hospital on Tuesday, October 13, to remove a portion of his right lung after medical screenings identified a localized pulmonary nodule.
Successful Surgical Intervention
A medical bulletin from the Holy See Press Office stated that a thoracic team, led by Professor Stefano Margaritora, performed the surgery. Using a minimally invasive, video-assisted technique, surgeons removed the lower lobe of the right lung. The medical team described the procedure as “radical,” intended to ensure the complete excision of all sus**cious tissue.
The Pope’s personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, and Professor Margaritora confirmed that histological examination verified a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma. This is the most common form of non-small cell lung cancer, typically originating in the glandular cells of the outer lung tissue.
Clinical Context and Recovery
The surgery lasted approximately 90 minutes. Vatican officials reported that the Pope is resting comfortably in his room on the 10th floor of the Gemelli Hospital. While the procedure was successful, the Vatican has not yet announced a long-term treatment plan. Further diagnostic tests are pending to determine the stage of the cancer and whether additional therapies, such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy, will be necessary.
Lung Adenocarcinoma
- Definition: A common form of non-small cell lung cancer that develops in the glandular cells.
- Prognosis: Often has a more favorable outcome if detected and treated early.
- Diagnostic Standard: Requires tissue analysis via biopsy or resection, as imaging alone cannot confirm malignancy.
Impact on Papal Duties
Pope Leo, elected in May 2025, has suspended all public engagements through October 20 to focus on his recovery. He is expected to remain hospitalized for approximately one week. His 11-day tour of Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, originally scheduled for November 6, remains under review while medical staff assess his respiratory recovery.
The Vatican bureaucracy continues to function as usual, as there is no formal deputy to assume the pontiff’s administrative duties during an illness. Medical teams are currently focused on monitoring his recovery and analyzing the genetic profile of the resected tissue to guide future clinical decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific surgery did Pope Leo undergo?
The Pope underwent a video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, a procedure known as a lobectomy.
What is the diagnosis?
Pathology results confirmed lung adenocarcinoma, a common type of non-small cell lung cancer.
How long is the expected recovery time?
The Vatican expects the Pope to remain in the Gemelli Hospital for approximately one week.
Are there further treatments planned?
Medical teams are awaiting test results to determine if the cancer requires adjuvant therapies like chemotherapy or targeted drug treatments.
How does this affect his upcoming travel?
His November trip to South America is under review; a final decision will depend on his medical clearance and recovery progress.
