Pope Leo XIV Undergoes Surgery to Remove Cancerous Lung Nodule, Faces Week-Long Recovery
Pope Leo XIV is expected to spend about a week in hospital recovering after undergoing surgery to remove a cancerous nodule from his right lung, with details of any further treatment yet to be disclosed.
The 71-year-old pontiff underwent the three-hour operation at Agostino Gemelli University Hospital in Rome on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, following the discovery of a lung nodule during routine medical examinations.
According to his medical team, subsequent tests confirmed that the nodule was an adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer.
The surgery involved removing the lower lobe of the Pope’s right lung. The procedure was led by renowned Italian professor Stefano Margaritora.
The medical team said the operation went smoothly without complications and that the pontiff returned to his hospital room afterwards.
However, the Vatican has yet to provide details of whether he will require additional treatment following the surgery.
Pope Leo had informed thousands of faithful gathered at St Peter’s Square on Sunday that doctors had discovered the lung nodule at a very early stage and that it was well localised.
He said his doctors had recommended surgery and that he had decided to follow their advice.
The Pope’s hospitalisation has led to the cancellation of all his scheduled audiences until the middle of next week.
He will also miss the closing service of an international bishops’ meeting on marriage and the family, scheduled to take place at St Peter’s Square on Wednesday.
Concerns have also emerged over the Pope’s planned visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru in November.
The Vatican has not announced any changes to the nearly two-week trip, despite his ongoing recovery.
One of the anticipated destinations is Cusco, Peru, which sits approximately 3,400 metres above sea level. The high altitude can cause breathing difficulties and altitude sickness, potentially posing additional challenges during his recovery.
Leo spent several years as a missionary and bishop in Peru and previously served as the worldwide head of the Augustinian order. He also holds Peruvian citizenship.
Before the lung nodule was discovered, no major health problems had been publicly reported concerning Leo, who was elected leader of the Catholic Church in May 2025.
The pontiff is known to maintain an active lifestyle through activities such as tennis, swimming and regular exercise.
Agostino Gemelli University Hospital, located on the outskirts of Rome, has a dedicated wing for popes on its 10th floor. Leo’s predecessor, Pope Francis, also received medical care at the facility before his death at the age of 88.
The Vatican has traditionally maintained a high degree of discretion regarding the health of popes. Leo’s decision to publicly disclose his planned surgery therefore represents a notable departure from the institution’s usual approach to papal health matters.
