14 Oct 2026

 

A lung tumor was discovered during a recent health checkup. Pope Leo XIV was hospitalized at Gemelli Hospital in Rome on October 13, 2026 for and underwent surgery the same day.  

Tissue analysis performed during the operation later confirmed lung adenocarcinoma.

Doctors removed the lower lobe of his right lung. Tissue testing performed during the operation confirmed what doctors had suspected from preparatory examinations. The 71-year-old pontiff has lung adenocarcinoma, according to a medical bulletin from the Vatican.

The Holy See Press Office announced on October 15 that Pope Leo XIV had a nice second night at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. The Vatican has previously stated that the pope will spend around a week in the hospital recovering. All of his public appearances have been canceled till October 20, 2026.