Pope Leo XIV, aged 71, is recovering well after a 90‑minute surgery that removed a lower lobe of his lung at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. The operation, performed early this week, was deemed radical and successful, and the pontiff began walking and eating normally the following day.
Blood tests and imaging confirm he is healing as expected, and he will remain in hospital for about a week. Doctors say he has also undergone respiratory physiotherapy and has been kept under observation for any complications.
The Pope’s case follows a growing trend of early‑stage lung cancer detection among older adults, and it has prompted worldwide reactions from Catholic communities, many of whom have closely followed the health of past Popes.
Celebrated for his long tenure as a global spiritual leader, Leo XIV’s openness about his health may influence how young Catholics view regular health screenings and preventive care.
