Pope Leo XIV diagnosed with lung cancer during surgery

Pope Leo XIV has undergone successful surgery to remove a lung tumor, with tests during the operation confirming a cancer diagnosis, according to the Vatican. Doctors reported no complications.

The 71-year-old pontiff underwent the operation Tuesday afternoon at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital in Rome. Surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung using a video-assisted technique to ensure complete removal of the tumor.

An examination of tissue during the procedure confirmed lung adenocarcinoma, a form of lung cancer, according to a medical statement released by the Holy See Press Office. Doctors said the diagnosis had been suspected based on tests conducted before surgery.

Leo spent approximately three hours in the operating room, while the procedure itself lasted about 90 minutes.

“The surgery was successful, and there were no complications,” the medical statement said.

After regaining consciousness and spending a brief period under observation, the pope returned to his room on the hospital’s 10th floor. The surgical team was led by Professor Stefano Margaritora, who issued the statement with Dr. Luigi Carbone.

Pope Leo announced over the weekend that doctors had discovered a small, localized nodule during recent medical examinations. He said it had been detected at a very early stage and that he had agreed to surgery on their advice.

“I thank you for your spiritual closeness and entrust myself to your prayers,” he told people gathered in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican on Sunday.

Before the operation, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni said recovery was expected to take about one week.

Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, Leo became the first U.S.-born pope when he was elected on May 8, 2025. He succeeded Pope Francis, who died the previous month.