The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma after undergoing a successful operation to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, according to a medical update released by the Vatican.
The 71-year-old pontiff underwent a 90-minute procedure at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Tuesday. The Vatican said the surgery was completed successfully without complications.
“The operation was successful and there were no complications,” the Vatican said in its medical bulletin, adding that the Pope regained consciousness normally before returning to his room following a brief period of observation.
The lung growth was initially discovered during what the Vatican described as routine medical examinations. The pontiff is expected to remain in hospital for approximately one week as he recovers.
Before his admission, crowds gathered outside the hospital to offer prayers and messages of support. As his vehicle arrived, well-wishers cheered while the Pope waved and smiled through the lowered rear window.
Hospital staff welcomed him at the entrance, expressing sympathy and assuring him of their support.
According to the Vatican, surgeons removed the entire lower lobe of the Pope’s right lung to ensure the procedure was thorough.
A Vatican source told Agence France-Presse that further examinations were being conducted to establish whether the cancer had spread to other parts of his body.
Pope Reveals Lung Growth Was Detected Early
Pope Leo XIV had announced his planned operation on Sunday while addressing worshippers from the balcony overlooking St Peter’s Square after delivering the traditional Angelus blessing.
At the time, he said the lung nodule had been detected at a very early stage and was contained, with doctors recommending its removal.
Although lung nodules are relatively common and are not always cancerous, subsequent medical examinations confirmed that the growth was pulmonary adenocarcinoma, as suspected during pre-operative assessments.
The Vatican has emphasised that the Pope, who is generally considered to be in good health, had not displayed symptoms of infection or other illness.
The surgical team at Gemelli Hospital performed the procedure, with the pontiff’s schedule cleared until October 20 to allow him time to recuperate.
Pope Keen to Maintain Planned Latin America Visit
Cardinal Kikuchi Tarcisio Isao of Tokyo said on social media that he had met Pope Leo on Monday and that the pontiff had reported feeling physically well.
According to the cardinal, the Pope opted to undergo the procedure promptly because he was scheduled to travel to Latin America in early November and hoped to maintain his plans.
The proposed trip carries particular significance because it includes Peru, where Leo spent several years serving as a missionary before becoming a bishop.
News of the diagnosis has nevertheless caused concern among Catholics worldwide, despite assurances from the Vatican about the successful operation and the Pope’s recovery.
Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin acknowledged the shock surrounding the announcement while speaking to journalists on Tuesday.
He described the news as unexpected but said the cardinals had been encouraged by the Pope’s calm demeanour and remained hopeful about his recovery.
Catholics Gather to Pray for the Pontiff
Outside Gemelli Hospital, which has treated several previous popes and features a prominent statue of Pope John Paul II, Catholics gathered to express their concern and offer prayers.
One woman, Carla, said she had specifically travelled to the hospital to feel closer to the pontiff during his treatment.
She told the BBC that the Pope’s apparent calmness had helped reassure supporters, adding that she intended to remain nearby and pray for him.
Another Catholic, Elsa, recalled being in St Peter’s Square when Leo announced his medical condition, saying the news had left her deeply shaken.
She explained that she had initially viewed the pontiff as a relatively young and healthy leader when he was elected, but the diagnosis had reminded her of his vulnerability.
The Vatican has not indicated whether the Pope’s planned travel schedule will change following the operation, as medical teams continue assessing his condition and recovery.
