Pope Leo XIV, 71, underwent surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Tuesday to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after a nodule was discovered. The roughly 90-minute procedure was described as successful and completed without complications. Subsequent examination of the tissue revealed the nodule was cancerous, specifically lung adenocarcinoma, which the Vatican stated had been suspected by pre-operative tests.
According to medical updates provided by the Vatican, the pontiff’s recovery is advancing normally. Early on Wednesday, blood tests and X-ray imaging confirmed progression was proceeding as anticipated. The Pope has already begun walking and has returned to a standard diet. He has also received respiratory physiotherapy as part of his post-operative care. Doctors anticipate he will require approximately one week of hospitalization for continued recovery.
The Pope had publicly disclosed his upcoming operation during his weekly Sunday prayers, explaining that physicians had identified a nodule described as “well-contained” and at an early stage. He noted medical professionals had recommended its removal. A Vatican source indicated additional testing was conducted to determine whether the cancer had spread beyond the initial site. The institution emphasized the pontiff remains generally fit with no reported symptoms of infection or other illness.
Lung adenocarcinoma develops in mucus-producing cells and ranks among the most common forms of lung cancer. Long-term outcomes depend on multiple factors including cancer stage at detection and overall patient health. Earlier identification generally correlates with better prognosis, and treatment options have advanced considerably in recent decades. Some adenocarcinomas are identified early through routine screening before symptoms manifest, though advanced cases may present with persistent cough, breathlessness, fatigue, and weight loss.
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