Pope Leo XIV will not require further treatment following surgery to remove lung cancer, his medical team announced Wednesday. The 71-year-old pontiff underwent a procedure on October 13 at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, during which surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung after diagnosing lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer.
The Vatican confirmed that post-surgery tests on the removed tissue showed the cancer was localized, meaning it had not spread beyond the lung. As a result, no additional therapies such as chemotherapy or radiation are deemed necessary. Doctors highlighted that early-stage lung adenocarcinoma can often be effectively treated with surgery alone, and advances in targeted therapies have improved outcomes for patients with more advanced disease.
Dr. Stefano Margaritora, who performed the surgery, described the operation as routine for a tumor of this size and expressed satisfaction with the pope’s postoperative recovery. The pope’s personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, jointly affirmed the positive prognosis. In remarks to Vatican News, Dr. Margaritora noted the pope’s strong motivation in his recovery process.
Pope Leo resumed public appearances soon after his discharge from the hospital on October 15. On Sunday, he addressed the faithful from a window of the Apostolic Palace, signaling the beginning of his gradual return to duties. On Wednesday, he appeared in St. Peter’s Square for his weekly general audience, greeting the crowd from the popemobile, stopping to bless babies, and thanking supporters for their prayers.
Despite the positive medical update, there remains some uncertainty regarding the pope’s upcoming international travel schedule. He is slated to embark on an 11-day trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru beginning November 6. The itinerary includes numerous flights and several stops at high altitude, raising concerns about the physical demands on the pope during his convalescence. Vatican officials have indicated that the schedule could be adjusted to accommodate additional rest if needed.
Some close to the pontiff, including his brother Louis Prevost, who is battling cancer himself, expressed surprise that the trip would proceed as planned, suggesting a possible postponement. Meanwhile, Pope Leo has conveyed his intention to continue with the journey and to gradually resume his active role both within the Church and on the international stage. Over the past week, he has engaged in diplomatic efforts, speaking by phone with leaders of Russia and Ukraine to advocate for cease-fire agreements to protect civilians amidst ongoing conflict.
The pope’s recovery and future schedule will continue to be closely monitored as he balances health considerations with his responsibilities as head of the Catholic Church.