Pope Leo XIV Vows Gradual Return to Duties Following Successful Lung Cancer Surgery
Pope Leo XIV makes a public return to St. Peter's Square after surgery to remove a malignant lung tumor. Read the latest on his recovery and travel plans.
POLICY WIRE — Vatican City, Holy See — Pope Leo XIV addressed thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, expressing his gratitude for their prayers during his recent hospitalization for the removal of a malignant tumor. The pontiff announced his intention to begin a gradual return to his official responsibilities.
The crowd cheered as the pope appeared at the window overlooking the square. Just one week prior, during the traditional Angelus blessing, he had informed the public that a nodule had been discovered on his lung and required surgical intervention.
Speaking with a strong voice only four days after the lower lobe of his right lung was removed, Leo stated, Now that this delicate phase is behind me, I will gradually resume my activities, always with God’s help and your prayers. He also noted that the experience has fostered a deep sense of closeness with those currently suffering from illness or infirmity.
The 71-year-old leader expressed his appreciation for the support he received, offering specific thanks to the medical staff at Gemelli Hospital. Following his brief appearance, he waved to the crowd before returning to his residence in the Apostolic Palace.
The surgery, which took place on Tuesday, marked the first major health challenge of his 17-month pontificate and confirmed a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma. After being discharged on Saturday, the pope told a reporter he was feeling much better as he departed the hospital.
While the Vatican has not released specific details regarding his prognosis, his surgeon, Dr. Stefano Margaritora, indicated that the pope is expected to make a full recovery in approximately 10 days. Margaritora also confirmed there are currently no clinical reasons to cancel the pope’s upcoming trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, scheduled for November 6-17.
Medical teams are currently conducting histological testing on the tumor and surrounding lymph nodes. These results will determine if further treatment, such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted oral therapy, is necessary based on the genetic profile of the cancer.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
