POPE LEO XIV UNDERGOES SUCCESSFUL SURGERY FOLLOWING LUNG CANCER DIAGNOSIS
On Tuesday evening, October 13, 2026, Pope Leo XIV underwent successful thoracic surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital to remove a small, localized nodule from one of his lungs that had recently been detected during medical examinations. An intraoperative examination of the tissue confirmed the diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, according to the Holy See Press Office.
The news of the Holy Father’s medical condition was relayed to the public during the Angelus prayer with the Christian faithful at St. Peter’s Square on October 11. The Pontiff personally disclosed his medical condition, explaining that the nodule had been discovered at a very early stage.
“Dear brothers and sisters, recently, during some medical examinations, doctors found a well-defined nodule in one of my lungs. It was detected at a very early stage and is well localized. The doctors believe it is advisable to operate. I have decided to undergo surgery to remove it, following their advice,” he said.
Following the announcement made on Sunday, October 11, the Holy Father was admitted to Gemelli Hospital, two days later and underwent surgery. The procedure itself lasted approximately 90 minutes, during which the lower lobe of his right lung was removed, according to a statement by the Holy See Press Office.
“The Holy Father was in the operating room for approximately three hours, while the procedure itself lasted about 90 minutes,” the statement said. The operation was successful, with no complications reported. After surgery, the Pope regained consciousness normally and, following a brief period of observation, returned to his room on the 10th floor.
Pope Leo is expected to remain in hospital for about a week as he continues his recovery. Messages of support and prayers have continued to come from Churches and political leaders around the world. His scheduled engagements for the coming days have been postponed.
