Pope Leo XIV, 71, diagnosed with lung cancer and underwent successful surgery to remove part of his lung, according to the Vatican. The procedure, which took 90 minutes, was successful and no complications were reported. The Pope is expected to remain in hospital for about a week.
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Leo had lung adenocarcinoma diagnosed during surgery at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. The operation involved removal of the lower lobe of his right lung to ensure radical treatment. The Pope, who is generally healthy, had no symptoms of infection or illness post-surgery.
Vatican officials stated that the Pope's decision to undergo surgery was to avoid delaying a planned trip to Latin America in November. The trip includes a visit to Peru, where he was a missionary. The news has caused shock among Catholics, recalling similar health issues with previous popes.
The Pope's predecessor, who died last year, had part of his lung removed in his youth before suffering respiratory infections. Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Parolin noted the news was a 'bolt from the blue' but emphasized the Pope's 'serenity' and confidence in his recovery.