Pope Leo XIV Diagnosed with Lung Cancer After Surgery
The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery to remove a lung nodule and has been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, prompting questions about his health outlook and future travel plans.
Pope Leo XIV, aged 71, was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma after a 90-minute operation to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. The diagnosis follows the Pope’s earlier announcement that doctors had found a nodule in his lung.
The surgery and cancer diagnosis have raised concerns about the pontiff’s prognosis and the possible impact on his schedule, including a planned November trip to South America that may be affected by the risks associated with air travel after lung surgery.
The Pope, a member of the Order of St Augustine, is known for maintaining regular health habits such as weekly tennis. His predecessor, Pope Francis, previously noted that he entered his papacy expecting a short tenure due to longstanding health issues.
Since his election, Pope Leo XIV has been noted for his measured approach to Church reforms and his public statements on topics such as war, migrant rights, and artificial intelligence. Observers are watching to see whether his cancer diagnosis will alter the pace or direction of his initiatives.
"The Pope’s health will be closely monitored, and any adjustments to his duties will be made with the guidance of his medical team," a Vatican spokesperson said.