Pope Leo recovering after lung cancer surgery, walking again

· Health · Italy

Pope Leo's recovery from a lung cancer operation is progressing as planned, his doctors said, as the pontiff began walking in his hospital room and is eating normally after surgery to remove part of his right lung at Rome's Gemelli hospital on October 13. Tests are pending to determine whether the cancer has spread to his lymph nodes, leaving the shape of his papacy more uncertain. The 71-year-old was diagnosed with lung cancer after a 90-minute procedure, and he has received good wishes from around the world, including from Britain's King Charles.

Why it matters：The health of the pope affects leadership of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics and the Vatican's diplomatic role.

Key points

  • Pope Leo is walking in his hospital room and eating normally.
  • Part of his right lung was removed on October 13.
  • Tests are pending on whether the cancer has spread.

Sources (original reporting)

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