Pope Francis has been admitted to Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital for bronchitis treatment, the Vatican announced on Friday.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been battling bronchitis for several days, is undergoing medical tests and receiving treatment. Despite his condition, he continued his scheduled audiences, meeting with Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico earlier in the day.
His recent health struggles were evident last Sunday when he had difficulty breathing during a Mass at the Vatican, prompting an aide to complete his speech.
Pope Francis has faced multiple health challenges in recent years. In 2022, knee problems forced him to cancel trips to Africa, leading him to rely on a cane or wheelchair. In 2023, he was hospitalized for a respiratory infection and later underwent abdominal surgery for a hernia. Earlier this year, he suffered a minor arm injury after a fall at home.
Born in Argentina in 1936, the Pope has dealt with health issues since his youth. At 21, he underwent surgery to remove part of his lung due to pneumonia and cysts—an experience he later credited with inspiring his decision to join the Jesuits.
Despite ongoing health concerns, Pope Francis has reassured the public that he remains committed to his role. In his recently released autobiography, he wrote, “I am well. The reality is, quite simply, that I am old,” dismissing speculation about resignation.
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