Pope Leo will not need additional cancer treatment following his recent hospitalization, according to a statement from his medical team. The 71-year-old pontiff underwent lung surgery on 13 October, during which the lower lobe of his right lung was removed. Pathological and molecular analyses of the extracted tissue confirmed a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, the most prevalent form of lung cancer, with the disease remaining localized to the surgical site.
Both the pope’s lead surgeon, Stefano Margaritora, and his personal physician, Luigi Carbone, indicated that no further therapeutic intervention would be necessary. The pontiff was discharged from the hospital and has begun resuming his regular activities, including his weekly audience with pilgrims in St Peter’s Square on Wednesday. During his hospitalization, he continued to conduct official business, including placing a call to Russian President Vladimir Putin in which he advocated for a ceasefire in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshky.
Uncertainty remains regarding a planned papal visit to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru scheduled for 6-17 November. While Margaritora stated there were no clinical contraindications to travel, the Vatican’s secretary of state suggested the pontiff may need to moderate his schedule to support his recovery. Prior to his cancer diagnosis, the pontiff, who is known to participate in sports including tennis, was generally considered to be in good health and frequently visits the papal residence at Castel Gandolfo near Rome.
In a statement to crowds gathered in St Peter’s Square, the pope said he would gradually resume his duties and expressed gratitude for the prayers offered on his behalf. He also reflected on his illness, indicating that the experience had deepened his connection with those experiencing medical conditions or physical limitations.
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