Pope Leo XIV Recovering After Lung Cancer Surgery, Set for Public Appearance
During his homily, he thanked the personnel caring for both him and other patients. The pope underwent blood tests and chest X-rays on Friday morning, participated in respiratory physical therapy, and was able to move and breathe independently while performing daily routines.
The Vatican announced that Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to recite the Angelus prayer publicly this coming Sunday, marking his first public appearance since his hospitalization. Medical teams have not yet disclosed test results confirming whether he is entirely free of cancer or whether additional treatment will be required. All papal engagements remain cancelled through October 20.
The 90-minute procedure, performed by the hospital's thoracic surgery team, successfully removed the entire lower lobe of the pope's right lung. The tumor was diagnosed as lung adenocarcinoma, a form of non-small cell lung cancer.
Lung adenocarcinoma is frequently diagnosed in individuals who have never smoked, with risk factors including radon gas, air pollution, and secondhand smoke. While the surgery successfully removed the diseased tissue without immediate complications, Vatican sources told Agence France-Presse that additional tests are underway to determine whether the cancer has spread, which will dictate the necessity of subsequent treatments such as chemotherapy or targeted therapy.
Vatican Considers Latin America Trip as Medical Evaluations Continue
Hospital staff gathered at the entrance, with one worker expressing condolences before the pontiff smiled and shrugged gently in response. The pope was elected by cardinals worldwide in May 2025 and is known for an active lifestyle that includes playing tennis.
The Vatican has not yet confirmed whether the pontiff’s scheduled apostolic journey to Latin America, planned for November 6 through November 17, will proceed as originally scheduled. Preparations for the international trip remain active while medical evaluations continue.