Pope Leo XIV Undergoes Lung Cancer Surgery

Pope Leo XIV, aged 71, underwent surgery on Tuesday that confirmed a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma. During the procedure, surgeons successfully removed the lower lobe of his right lung. The Vatican announced that the surgery was successful and free of complications.

Preoperative tests had indicated the possibility of cancer, which was confirmed during the operation. The pontiff's prognosis is considered excellent due to the early detection and removal of the nodule.

This disclosure represents an unusual level of transparency regarding the pontiff's health. While his audiences were canceled through October 20, his planned overseas trips are not expected to be affected.

Doctors utilized advanced robotic surgical technology for a minimally invasive procedure. The removal of lymph nodes will also help determine the cancer's stage, with early-stage diagnoses often requiring no further treatment.