Pope Leo XIV Has Lung Cancer, Vatican Says After Surgery

ROME — Pope Leo XIV has lung cancer, the Vatican announced Tuesday after surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung at Gemelli Hospital in Rome.

The 71-year-old pontiff, the first American-born pope, underwent the planned operation Oct. 13. A medical bulletin signed by Dr. Luigi Carbone and Prof. Stefano Margaritora said the surgery lasted about 90 minutes and that there were no complications.

The diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer, was confirmed by examining tissue during the operation, according to the Vatican. Preoperative tests had already raised the suspicion.

Leo disclosed the nodule himself two days earlier. At his Sunday noon prayer Oct. 11, he told the faithful in St. Peter’s Square that doctors had found “a small, localized nodule” in his lung and advised surgery.

The pope walked into Gemelli through the main entrance Tuesday, waving to well-wishers, and briefly greeted patients, including some in wheelchairs, according to the Associated Press. Medical staff recited the rosary in the hospital chapel before the procedure, two people familiar with the plans told the AP.

He spent about three hours in the operating room and returned to his room on the hospital’s 10th floor after a brief observation period. The Vatican said he is expected to remain in the hospital about a week.

All of the pontiff’s audiences have been canceled through Oct. 20. The Vatican did not immediately outline a treatment plan.

The operation is the first major health event of his papacy, which began with his election in May 2025.

In Philadelphia, home to one of the country’s largest Catholic populations and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, parishes will be watching his recovery closely.