Pope Leo XIV Requires No Further Treatment After Successful Lung Cancer Surgery
Pope Leo XIV will not require further cancer treatment following a successful 90-minute lung cancer surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, according to Vatican News. The 71-year-old pontiff, who was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma after a routine health check revealed an asymptomatic tumor in his right lung, remains under medical observation as his travel schedule faces ongoing adjustments.
Medical Evaluation Confirms Tumor Removal
Doctors Luigi Carbone and Stefano Margaritora reported that the cancerous tissue was completely removed during the operation, with final histological tests and molecular biology analyses confirming the diagnosis. Mathrubhumi noted that the tumor had not spread beyond the localized site, leading the medical team to determine that no subsequent oncological treatment is necessary. The pontiff has been staying in the hospital’s tenth-floor rooms, where he celebrated Mass in a temporary chapel following the procedure. The lower part of the pope’s right lung was removed on October 13.
Recovery and Resumption of Papal Duties
Discharged from the hospital on a Saturday, the pontiff has steadily returned to his normal duties, appearing in St. Peter’s Square for a weekly public audience. He continues to undergo respiratory physiotherapy sessions while maintaining independence in his daily movements and breathing. During his recovery, the pope used his time in the hospital to place a phone call to Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging a ceasefire in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshkiv. Addressing the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, the pope expressed gratitude to everyone who prayed for him and added that the experience brought him closer to all those going through illness or frailty.
Uncertainty Surrounding South American Apostolic Journey
An upcoming apostolic journey to South America scheduled from November 6 through November 17, covering Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, remains subject to potential schedule adjustments. While Manorama Online reported that Vatican officials indicated the trip does not need to be canceled, the Vatican’s Secretary of State noted that the pace of the itinerary will likely be modified to accommodate the pontiff’s recovery period. Margaritora had stated the previous week that there were no clinical reasons preventing the journey to South America.
