Pope Leo XIV Recovering from Lung Cancer Surgery, Expected to Stay Hospitalized Until October 20
Pope Leo XIV, 71, is recovering at Rome's Gemelli University Policlinic after surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung on October 13, 2026. Doctors confirmed the nodule was pulmonary adenocarcinoma, caught at an early stage. The pontiff has resumed working from his hospital suite and is expected to remain hospitalized until at least October 20.
Pope Leo XIV is recovering from lung cancer surgery performed October 13, 2026, at the Agostino Gemelli University Policlinic in Rome. Surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung during a 90-minute video-assisted thoracic procedure.
Histological tests confirmed the nodule was pulmonary adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer. Doctors described the discovery as "very early stage" and "well-contained." The 71-year-old pontiff's post-operative progress has been normal, according to his physicians, Dr. Luigi Carbone and Professor Stefano Margaritora.
As of October 15, a chest X-ray showed good recovery of the operated lung. The pope has been walking independently around his hospital room, performing respiratory physiotherapy, and celebrating Mass in a nearby chapel. He has also resumed eating regular meals and received a visit from Vatican chief of staff Archbishop Paolo Rudelli.
Doctors are still awaiting results on the molecular makeup of the cancer to determine whether further treatment is needed. The Vatican has canceled the pope's public events through October 20. His planned pastoral visit to Peru, Argentina, and Uruguay in November remains on the calendar.
The Vatican expects the pope to be discharged no earlier than October 20, 2026.
