Pope Leo XIV Requires No Further Treatment for Lung Cancer, Vatican Says

Pope Leo XIV will not require further treatment for lung cancer following successful surgery to remove the affected tissue, the Vatican has announced.

The Vatican Press Office disclosed this in a medical bulletin on Wednesday after the completion of final examinations and molecular biology tests on tissue removed during the pontiff’s surgery.

The results confirmed that the Pope had pulmonary adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer, but that the disease was localised. A subsequent oncological assessment concluded that no additional treatment was necessary.

The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery in Rome on October 13 after doctors identified a lung nodule during routine medical checks. Surgeons removed the affected lower lobe of his right lung.

He was discharged from hospital on October 17 and returned to the Vatican to continue his recovery.

The Pope had announced on October 11 that he required surgery for a lung nodule discovered during medical examinations, prompting concern among Catholics and other observers about his health and ability to continue his duties.

Following the operation, the Vatican reported that his recovery was progressing well. He subsequently made his first public appearance after leaving hospital, leading the traditional Angelus prayer from the balcony of the Apostolic Palace.

Addressing worshippers, Leo said the experience had given him a deeper sense of closeness to people living with illness and physical weakness.

Pulmonary adenocarcinoma is the most common type of lung cancer and can occur in people who have never smoked. Its progression varies depending on factors such as the stage at diagnosis and the characteristics of the tumour.

Although the latest findings mean the Pope does not need further cancer treatment at present, medical follow-up is expected to remain part of his recovery. Such monitoring can help doctors detect any possible recurrence.

The announcement comes as the pontiff prepares to resume his regular activities gradually following his hospitalisation.

He is scheduled to undertake a South American trip from November 6 to 17, with planned visits to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru. The journey is expected to involve several flights and public engagements.

The Vatican has not indicated any clinical reason to cancel the trip, although the Pope’s recovery and medical advice will remain important considerations in determining his schedule.

The latest medical assessment provides reassurance about the outcome of the surgery, while follow-up care will continue to guide decisions concerning his health and future activities.