Pope Leo XIV Diagnosed With Lung Adenocarcinoma Undergoes Right Lower Lobe Surgery

Pope Leo XIV was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma after a nodule was found in his right lung. He underwent surgery at Agostino Gemelli University Hospital in Rome on October 13, 2026. The operation was successful and no complications occurred. Recovery is expected to take about one week, and all official engagements are scheduled to be canceled until November 20. The Vatican press office released a statement in English confirming that the surgery was performed as planned by the chest surgery team. The procedure involved removing the lower lobe of the right lung using endoscopic techniques.

Intraoperative rapid pathology confirmed that the suspected lung adenocarcinoma was present before the operation. The Pope remained conscious after the surgery and was observed briefly before returning to his room. While hospitalized, Vatican administration continues normally, but all duties requiring his signature have been postponed. On October 11, the Pope announced the diagnosis during the Angelus prayer in St. Peter's Square, explaining that the nodule was detected at an early stage and the disease was limited in scope. He also indicated that his planned visit to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6 to 17 would proceed as scheduled.