Pope Leo continues recovery after lung cancer surgery at Gemelli Hospital

Pope Leo XIV is recovering as expected at Rome's Gemelli Hospital after surgery on 13 October 2026 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. Doctors diagnosed the removed tissue as lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer.

On 16 October the Vatican released the first photographs of the pope since the operation, showing him celebrating Mass in the hospital chapel with his personal secretary. His medical team, led by surgeon Stefano Margaritora and personal physician Luigi Carbone, reported that blood tests and a chest X-ray confirmed continued improvement. The operated lung is recovering well, and the pope continues respiratory physiotherapy.

The 71-year-old pontiff is carrying out normal daily activities independently, including walking and eating regular meals. He has met Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, recently confirmed as dean of the College of Cardinals, and Cardinal Baldassare Reina. Public audiences remain cancelled through 20 October.

The surgery lasted about 90 minutes and was completed without complications. The Vatican has not yet released the size of the tumour or results of histological tests that would indicate whether the cancer had spread to lymph nodes. Doctors have not discussed further treatment pending those results.

Leo was elected in May 2025. The diagnosis is the first major publicly disclosed health issue of his papacy. The Vatican has provided regular medical updates, a departure from more limited disclosure under some previous popes. Plans for a November trip to South America remain unchanged for now, according to earlier statements.

The pope concelebrated Mass in the hospital on 14 October. He is expected to remain at Gemelli for about a week. No discharge date has been announced.

Catholic leaders and longtime associates have expressed confidence in his recovery while noting the seriousness of the diagnosis for a relatively young pontiff.