Pope Leo XIV Making Strong Recovery Post-Lung Cancer Surgery, Vatican Reports

Pope Leo XIV is showing positive signs of recovery following his lung cancer surgery, according to a medical update released by the Vatican. The pontiff has been discharged from bed, is walking, eating, and has commenced respiratory physiotherapy. Doctors Luigi Carbone and Stefano Margaritora confirmed that blood tests and a chest X-ray indicated "normal post-operative" progress, with all values falling within the expected range for the procedure.

"The Holy Father underwent respiratory physiotherapy and has begun walking in his room," stated the doctors, adding that he "resumed his regular diet and had breakfast and lunch." They further commented, "Recovery is proceeding as planned."

The 71-year-old pontiff was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma after the operation to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. This diagnosis was confirmed by tests following the surgery, though preoperative tests had already raised suspicion. The Vatican stated that the 90-minute procedure was "successful, and there were no complications." A medical statement from the Holy See’s press office highlighted the "radical" removal of the lobe, suggesting that all suspect tissue was excised in an effort to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.

Following the surgery, Pope Leo returned to his room at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where he is expected to remain for a week. Consequently, all his scheduled audiences through October 20 have been cancelled. The Vatican has indicated that discussions regarding chemotherapy or other treatments are pending the results of further tests.