Pope Leo Diagnosed with Lung Cancer, Doctors Remove Lobe of Lung in Vatican Surgery

In a major health development from the Vatican, Pope Leo has been diagnosed with lung cancer after undergoing a 90-minute surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. Medical bulletins confirmed the diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer.

Details of the 90-Minute Surgery

The 71-year-old pontiff left the Vatican on Tuesday and travelled to Gemelli Hospital, where a growth detected during recent health check-ups was surgically addressed. Professor Stefano Margaritora, head of thoracic surgery at the hospital, performed the procedure using a video-assisted technique to ensure it was curative.

Tissue tests conducted during the operation confirmed the malignancy suspected during preoperative examinations. According to the Vatican, the surgery was completed without complications, and the pope woke up normally to rest in his hospital room.

Impact on Schedule and Public Engagements

The Vatican announced that Pope Leo is expected to remain hospitalized for approximately a week. All public engagements have been cancelled until October 20, casting uncertainty on his demanding travel schedule, which includes an upcoming 11-day tour of South America in November. Elected in May 2025, Pope Leo is a known sports enthusiast with no prior reported major health issues during his current tenure.