Pope Leo XIV recovering after successful lung cancer surgery

Global leaders are offering prayers and well-wishes for Pope Leo XIV following a successful operation at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. Surgeons removed the lower lobe of the pontiff’s right lung after preoperative examinations confirmed a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma, marking a critical moment for the head of the Catholic Church.

Editorial·October 14, 2026·reads: 933

Pope Leo XIV recovering after successful lung cancer surgery

The procedure, performed Tuesday afternoon, lasted approximately 90 minutes. A medical team led by Professor Stefano Margaritora utilized a video-assisted technique to perform the resection. According to the Holy See Press Office, the surgery proceeded without complications, and the Pope returned to his room on the hospital's 10th floor shortly after the operation. Director Matteo Bruni noted that the pontiff was alert enough to request dinner and spend time with his staff that evening.

Political figures from across the globe signaled their support as news of the successful surgery spread. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney both issued statements praising the Pope as a global voice for peace and reason. Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio turned to social media to share their hopes for his recovery. The US Conference of Catholic Bishops echoed these sentiments, urging the faithful to extend their prayers to the medical professionals at Gemelli Hospital and all those currently battling cancer.