Pope Leo XIV Undergoes Surgery to Remove Lung Cancer

Pope Leo XIV underwent successful surgery on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Rome's Gemelli hospital to remove a lung nodule. While the 71-year-old American pontiff initially described the growth as a localized nodule found during routine checks, the Government of the Holy See later confirmed the diagnosis was lung cancer and that the lower lobe of his right lung was removed. Oncologists report an excellent prognosis because the malignancy was detected and removed at an early stage.

The pontiff first announced the medical issue during a Sunday blessing, stating the lesion was "circumscribed" and detected early. The surgery marks the first major health disclosure of his 17-month papacy. Following the procedure, the Pope has canceled all audiences through October 20, and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle will preside over a scheduled Mass on Wednesday in his stead.

Despite the diagnosis, the Pope intends to proceed with a pastoral visit to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6 to 17. This plan remains despite medical observations that patients are typically advised against flying for three weeks following lung surgery. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Italian government have expressed their support for the pontiff's recovery.