Pope Leo XIV Diagnosed with Lung Cancer, Undergoes Surgery

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, the Vatican has confirmed that Pope Leo XIV, the 71-year-old spiritual leader of Catholics worldwide, has been diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, a prevalent type of lung cancer. Histopathological test results have corroborated the initial medical assessments.

Pope Leo was hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for surgery to address the tumor. According to the medical team, the lower portion of his right lung was operated on with the objective of completely removing the cancerous tissues.

The Vatican has stated that all public audiences for the Pope have been canceled until October 21 to allow for his recovery period. However, no decision has yet been made regarding the fate of his 11-day trip to South America, which was scheduled for November.

Pope Leo was elected as the head of the Roman Catholic Church in May 2025, following the passing of Pope Francis in April of the same year.