Update: Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer, the Vatican confirmed Tuesday evening after surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung during an operation in Rome.
The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery at Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital after doctors discovered a small growth during routine medical examinations. According to the Vatican, tissue testing confirmed pulmonary adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer.
The operation lasted approximately 90 minutes and was completed without complications. Leo awakened normally from anesthesia and returned to his hospital room, where he is expected to recover over the next week.
The diagnosis comes two days after the first American pope disclosed the discovery of a lung nodule during his weekly Angelus address in St. Peter’s Square.
“Dear friends, during some recent medical examinations, doctors found a localized nodule in my lung. It was detected at a very early stage and is well localized,” Leo said. “The doctors believe surgery is appropriate. Following their advice, I have therefore decided to undergo an operation to remove it. The operation is already scheduled for the coming days.”
Although surgeons removed the affected portion of his lung, further testing is needed to determine whether the cancer has spread. No immediate chemotherapy or other additional treatment has been announced.
Original Story
Pope Leo XIV will undergo surgery in the coming days to remove a lung nodule discovered during recent medical examinations, the pontiff announced earlier in the week.
The 71-year-old pope disclosed the finding during his weekly Angelus address to pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said the operation is scheduled for early this week at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital, with recovery expected to take about a week.
“Dear friends, during some recent medical examinations, doctors found a localized nodule in my lung. It was detected at a very early stage and is well localized,” Leo said. “The doctors believe surgery is appropriate. Following their advice, I have therefore decided to undergo an operation to remove it. The operation is already scheduled for the coming days.”
Leo thanked the faithful for their spiritual closeness and entrusted himself to their prayers. The Vatican has not said whether the nodule is malignant.
Born Robert Francis Prevost, Leo became the first American pope when he succeeded Pope Francis in 2025. The announcement marks the first major health concern publicly reported during his pontificate. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her personal solidarity and the support of the Italian government ahead of the procedure.
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