Key facts
- Pope Leo XIV will not require further treatment for lung cancer.
- Tests confirmed the cancer was localized adenocarcinoma.
- He underwent surgery on October 13 to remove part of his right lung.
- The pontiff resumed his weekly general audience on Wednesday.
Pope Leo XIV will not require further treatment for lung cancer, as follow-up tests have confirmed the disease was localized, the Vatican announced on Wednesday. The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery on October 13 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, a procedure that confirmed a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer. He was discharged from the hospital over the weekend, four days after the surgery. The Pope returned to St. Peter's Square on Wednesday for his first general audience since the operation, waving to pilgrims and blessing babies. He stated that he felt particularly close to those living with illness and that he would gradually resume his activities. A trip to South America is planned for early November.