Health 13 October 2026 Nile Post
Pope Leo XIV Undergoes Successful Lung Cancer Surgery
The Vatican has announced that Pope Leo XIV has undergone successful surgery to remove a portion of his right lung due to lung cancer. The 71-year-old pontiff is expected to remain in hospital for approximately one week. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/378153/pope-diagnosed-with-lung-cancer-but-had-successful-surgery-vatican-says
Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer following a surgical procedure at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. The Vatican confirmed that the 71-year-old pontiff had 90-minute surgery on Tuesday, during which the entire lower lobe of his right lung was removed.
The Vatican medical bulletin stated that the operation was successful, with no complications. The Pope recovered well from anesthesia and has returned to his room for a period of observation. He is expected to stay in the hospital for about a week.
The cancerous growth, described as a nodule, was discovered during routine medical checks. The Pope himself had announced the news of his upcoming operation to the world on Sunday, following the Angelus blessing in St. Peter’s Square. He had reassured the public that the growth was “contained” and found at a very early stage.
Further tests are being conducted to determine if the cancer has spread. Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Parolin expressed initial surprise at the news but conveyed confidence in the Pope’s recovery, noting his “serenity.”
Outside the hospital, well-wishers gathered, offering prayers and showing support for the pontiff. Many expressed concern but also faith in his strength and recovery, with some noting their surprise at the news given their perception of him as a younger, healthier leader.