Pope Leo XIV underwent a 90‑minute operation at Rome's Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic to remove a cancerous growth from his right lung. The Vatican confirmed the surgery was successful and that the removed tissue confirmed lung adenocarcinoma.
Pope Leo XIV lung surgery details
The procedure took place on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026, and involved excising the lower lobe of the Pope's right lung. After the operation, he awoke normally, was observed briefly, and returned to his room on the hospital's 10th floor.
Adenocarcinoma diagnosis
Pathology reports verified the presence of adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer that accounts for roughly 40% of cases in the United States, according to the Lung Cancer Foundation of America. This finding matched a prior test that had indicated cancer.
Does Pope Leo XIV have lung cancer?
Yes. The confirmed diagnosis is lung adenocarcinoma, a specific form of lung cancer.
Is Pope Leo XIV a smoker?
There is no evidence that the Pope has ever smoked. Official statements note that he has not been known to use cigarettes.
How old is Pope Leo XIV?
At the time of his surgery, Pope Leo XIV was 71 years old, which is relatively young for a pontiff.
Family cancer history and health background
The Pope's family has a history of cancer. His older brother Louis is currently hospitalized for a different cancer, and his mother, Mildred, died of cancer in 1990. Despite this, Pope Leo XIV remains physically active, playing tennis weekly and riding horses at the Castel Gandolfo retreat.
What follows after the surgery?
The Vatican has cleared the Pope's public schedule through at least Oct. 20 while he recovers. No further treatment plans have been announced yet.
For more on health-related news, see our coverage of recent medical developments.
Sources: NPR, NPR, The Washington Post, Reuters.
