Vatican says Pope Leo to be released from the hospital on October 17, four days after lung cancer surgery

Pope Leo XIV is set to be discharged from the hospital following successful surgery to remove a cancerous nodule from his lung. He is expected to resume his public duties, including a traditional Sunday blessing, shortly after his release.
Why it matters
The health of the head of the Roman Catholic Church is a matter of significant global interest and concern for millions of followers.
Vatican says Pope Leo to be released from the hospital on October 17, four days after lung cancer surgery left Images of Pope Leo XIV rest at the base of a statue of Pope St. John Paul II at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, where Pope Leo is hospitalised, in Rome, on October 16, 2026. AP AP https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/49u0mw/article71596140.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/Vatican_Pope_Surgery_6_98.jpg Andrew Medichini Images of Pope Leo XIV rest at the base of a statue of Pope St. John Paul II at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, where Leo is hospitalized, in Rome, Friday, Oct. 16, 2026. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) Pope Leo had the lower lobe of his right lung removed after doctors identified a suspected cancerous nodule.
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7 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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