POPE LEO XIV UNDERGOES SUCCESSFUL SURGERY FOLLOWING LUNG CANCER DIAGNOSIS

Pope Leo XIV underwent successful thoracic surgery to remove a lung nodule at Gemelli Hospital in Rome on Tuesday evening, October 13, 2026. The Holy See Press Office reported that the procedure lasted approximately 90 minutes and involved the removal of the lower lobe of his right lung.

An examination of the tissue during the operation confirmed a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma. The Pope had previously informed the public of his condition during the Angelus prayer on October 11, noting that doctors discovered the well-localized nodule during recent medical examinations.

The surgery was completed without complications. Following the procedure, the Pope regained consciousness normally and remained under observation at the hospital.