Pope Leo XIV undergoes surgery for cancer: What is lung adenocarcinoma?
Pope Leo XIV underwent successful surgery on October 13, 2026, for lung adenocarcinoma, a type of non-small cell lung cancer, with the lower lobe of his right lung removed. The 71-year-old pontiff is recovering well, and his public events are cancelled until October 20, with an upcoming South American tour now uncertain.
Why it matters
This event impacts the spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church, affecting millions globally and potentially altering his public schedule and future engagements. It also brings attention to lung cancer and its medical aspects.
Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer , according a statement by the Vatican on October 13, 2026
The 71-year-old spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church was in the operating room for about 3 hours, and the surgery itself lasted approximately 90 minutes. The lower lobe of his right lung has been removed after the diagnosis.
The surgery was successful and there were no complications.
The pontiff has lung adenocarcinoma, according to a bulletin by the Vatican.
It added that tissue tests conducted during the operation confirmed what doctors had suspected from preparatory examinations.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), lung cancer is a disease in which cells in the lung grow out of control.
Lung cancers are grouped into two main types called non-small cell and small cell.
Also covering this story
10 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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Pope Leo Has Cancerous Growth Removed In Lung Operation
Pope Leo XIV undergoes successful lung surgery after cancer diagnosis
Pope Leo has lung cancer, the Vatican announces after surgery
Pope will be admitted to hospital Tuesday for lung nodule surgery, Vatican says - AP News
Pope Leo to be hospitalized Tuesday for surgery to remove a lung nodule - NBC News
Pope Leo to enter hospital on Tuesday for surgery on lung nodule
Pope to be admitted to hospital for lung operation
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