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Pope Leo XIV After Lung Surgery: Lung Cancer Diagnosis Confirmed

Pope Leo XIV has undergone lung surgery, and lung cancer has been diagnosed following the procedure. His recovery is said to be progressing normally.

15 October 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Pope Leo XIV After Lung Surgery: Lung Cancer Diagnosis Confirmed — Archive photoPhoto: Wilhelm Krauskopf (1847-1921) · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

Pope Leo XIV underwent a roughly 90-minute surgery on Tuesday, during which a knot discovered by doctors in his lung was removed. Following the operation, he was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of malignant lung tumors.

According to the Vatican, the surgery was successful. The Pope spent a calm night in the hospital and has since gotten out of bed, had breakfast, and begun respiratory physiotherapy. Doctors reported that his recovery is proceeding normally.

The surgery took place at the Agostino Gemelli Hospital in Rome. Doctors indicate that the health status of the 71-year-old Pontiff is stable and emphasize that he is receiving appropriate care during his hospital stay.

After the procedure, the medical team is still awaiting results to determine whether the cancer may have spread. As the doctors explained, lung cancer can be cured through surgery with early diagnosis, and a return to normal daily life is possible.

The Pope's condition was only made public on Sunday when he revealed the knot in his lung that ultimately led to the surgery. The lung cancer diagnosis has generated international attention, with well-wishes for recovery expressed from various parts of the world, including U.S. President Donald Trump.

The next steps for the Pope remain uncertain, but the Vatican announced that further information about his condition will be released throughout the day. The Pope will continue to be closely monitored.

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