Pope Leo needs no further cancer treatment after lung surgery

· Health

Pope Leo XIV will require no further treatment for lung cancer after tests confirmed the disease was localised, the Vatican said on Oct 21. The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery on Oct 13 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after being diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, and was discharged on Saturday. He has begun a gradual return to his duties, taking to the popemobile for his first general audience in St Peter's Square since the operation and telling crowds, "The first thing I want to say to you is thank you for the support and prayers." He hopes to proceed with a planned visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from Nov 6 to 17.

Why it matters：The health of the head of the world's largest Christian denomination matters for Vatican governance and his planned Latin American trip.

Key points

  • Tests confirmed the adenocarcinoma was localised.
  • Surgery on Oct 13 removed the lower lobe of his right lung.
  • He plans to visit Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from Nov 6 to 17.

Sources (original reporting)

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