English
The Vatican announced on October 13, 2026, that Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer and underwent surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. The procedure marked a significant medical development for the first American pope, drawing widespread attention from both the Catholic community and the international public.
Surgery and Diagnosis
Surgeons removed the lower lobe of Pope Leo’s right lung during the operation. The Vatican described the procedure as “radical,” a term that reflects the extent of the surgical intervention rather than any unexpected complications.
Stay connected to every major update — subscribe and follow us on the PhoenixQ website and across our social media platforms.
NBC News correspondent Anne Thompson explained why doctors used that characterization. Meanwhile, reporter Claudio Lavanga provided details on the recovery timeline the medical team expects the pope to follow in the coming weeks.
Despite the serious nature of the diagnosis, a doctor speaking about the case offered a measure of reassurance. The physician described Pope Leo’s cancer as “one of the more treatable” forms of the disease, suggesting that the prognosis carries reason for cautious optimism.
Recovery Outlook
The Vatican also confirmed that the lung surgery went “according to plan.” That statement followed the initial announcement and indicated that the medical team encountered no major setbacks during the procedure.
Pope Leo XIV has been an active and visible figure since taking on the papacy as the first American to hold the role. In recent months, he addressed topics ranging from artificial intelligence and AI weapons to visits with world leaders and public appearances across Europe.
Among his recent activities, he honored the 100th anniversary of architect Antoni Gaudí’s death with a visit to La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. He also received the Liberty Medal and led a Good Friday Cross Procession at the Colosseum in Rome.
A Pope Under the Spotlight
Pope Leo has also navigated a series of high-profile political moments. He met with Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a meeting described as high-stakes. He also told NBC News that he has “no fear” of the Trump administration, while separately stating it was “not in my interest” to debate President Trump directly.
President Trump, in turn, publicly stated that he has “the right to disagree with the pope” after Pope Leo issued criticism related to war. The exchange highlighted the independent and outspoken tone the pope has maintained throughout his tenure.
As Pope Leo XIV begins his recovery, the Vatican has not yet released a detailed schedule of upcoming public engagements. However, officials had previously discussed a potential visit by the pope to the United States, a trip that now remains subject to his medical progress.
