Pope Leo XIV, 71, has been diagnosed with lung cancer after undergoing successful surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, the Vatican announced. During a 90-minute operation on Tuesday, surgeons removed the entire lower lobe of his right lung after doctors discovered a growth during routine medical checks. The Vatican said the Pope awoke normally following the procedure and returned to his hospital room after a brief observation period. Before his admission, Leo had told the public that the lung nodule was contained and had been detected at a very early stage. However, examinations confirmed pulmonary adenocarcinoma, a form of lung cancer, and additional tests were reportedly underway to determine whether it had spread. Crowds gathered outside the hospital to offer encouragement, cheering and waving as the pontiff arrived. Although the Vatican reported that he had shown no symptoms of infection or illness, the diagnosis shocked Catholics worldwide.

The Pope had announced his surgery during Sunday prayers in St Peter’s Square, explaining that doctors had recommended removing the growth. His schedule has been cleared through October 20 to allow him time to recover. Despite the medical setback, Leo had hoped to travel to Latin America in early November, including Peru, where he previously served as a missionary and bishop. Cardinal Kikuchi Tarcisio Isao of Tokyo said the pontiff had felt physically well when they met on Monday and wanted to address the problem quickly. Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin described the news as a sudden shock but expressed confidence in the Pope’s recovery, praising his calm attitude. Outside Gemelli Hospital, supporters continued praying and sharing messages of hope. Whether Leo can proceed with his planned journey remains uncertain, as doctors assess his condition and further results clarify the extent of the disease.