Pope Leo will not need additional medical intervention following lung cancer surgery performed on 13 October, according to a statement from his medical team released by the Vatican.
The 71-year-old pontiff underwent removal of the lower lobe of his right lung and was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer. Histological examinations and molecular biology analyses of the removed tissue confirmed the diagnosis, with pathology findings indicating the disease remained localized without spread to other tissues. The pope’s lead surgeon, Stefano Margaritora, and personal physician, Luigi Carbone, jointly stated that subsequent oncological evaluation determined no further therapy is necessary.
Leo was discharged from the hospital and has begun resuming his regular responsibilities. He returned to St Peter’s Square on Wednesday to conduct his weekly audience with pilgrims. During his hospital stay, the pontiff continued some work duties, including a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin in which he appealed for a ceasefire in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshky. In remarks to crowds gathered in St Peter’s Square, Leo indicated he would “gradually resume” his activities and expressed gratitude to those who had prayed for his recovery.
Uncertainty remains regarding whether the pope will proceed with a planned trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru scheduled for 6-17 November. While Margaritora indicated there were no clinical reasons preventing travel to South America, Vatican officials suggested the pontiff may need to adjust his schedule pace to support his recovery process. Prior to his cancer diagnosis, Leo was generally considered to be in good health and regularly engaged in sports including tennis.
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