In brief
Pope Leo XIV has been cleared of cancer after a 90‑minute operation that removed a tumorous growth from his lower right lung. Doctors confirmed the tumour was an adenocarcinoma that was localised, and no further treatment is required. Discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, the 71‑year‑old returned to St Peter’s Square for his first general audience since the operation. He last week spoke to Russian and Ukrainian leaders and remains ready to travel to Latin America early next month.
Pope Leo XIV no longer needs further treatment after a 90‑minute surgery to remove a cancerous growth from his lung.
Doctors confirmed the removed tissue was an adenocarcinoma and that the disease was localised.
The Vatican added that a subsequent oncological assessment found no other treatment required.
He was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital early last week after the operation on 13 October.
The pontiff returned to St Peter’s Square Wednesday for his first weekly general audience since the surgery.
During the operation the lower lobe of his right lung was removed.
He announced the procedure during Sunday prayers, saying the nodule was caught at an early stage.
Images released after the operation showed him celebrating Mass in the hospital wearing green vestments and standing behind a makeshift altar.
During this period he called Russian President Vladimir Putin urging a ceasefire and food aid for the blockaded city of Oleshky, and also spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Health issues are not expected to delay his planned trip to Latin America in early November.
