On 2026-10-14 Pope Leo XIV was diagnosed with lung cancer. The Vatican confirmed the diagnosis and treatment details on the same day, marking the start of a medical journey that would quickly move from announcement to surgery.
Later that day the pontiff underwent surgery for lung cancer. The operation lasted exactly ninety minutes and took place in Rome. During the procedure doctors removed the lower lobe of his right lung.
Our family continues to pray for the good health and full recovery of Pope Leo XIV. May God grant him strength as he works to get better. I hope he knows that millions of American Christians are thinking about him.
Following the operation it emerged that the tumor was pulmonary adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer.
Your sharing of experiences and attentive listening are indeed a gift to the whole Church.
At seventy‑one years old Pope Leo XIV is not only facing a serious health challenge but also holds the distinction of being the first American to be elected pope. His age and background were noted in the initial reports about his condition.
After the operation Pope Leo XIV issued his first public statement. He expressed gratitude for the prayers and support he had received, saying he was especially grateful to the families who had spoken of their joys, struggles and hopes.
In his message he said: "As you know, I have been unable to be among you during these days. I thank you warmly for your prayers and for the work you have done together. Your sharing of experiences and attentive listening are indeed a gift to the whole Church. I am especially grateful to the families who have spoken of their joys, struggles and hopes."
Because the papal apartment is undergoing ongoing refurbishment, the pope is expected to recover in a nearby room. This arrangement allows him to rest while the work on his usual residence continues.
Pope Leo XIV has cancelled all public engagements until October 20.
A scheduled trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru remains on the calendar but may be affected by his recovery. The journey is still planned, though its timing could shift depending on how the postoperative period progresses.
The Vatican played an active role in communicating the situation, confirming both the diagnosis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma and the specifics of the surgical treatment.
Reports indicate that the pope’s recovery is proceeding as expected. The surgery was described as successful, and he is said to be healing well while awaiting the completion of the papal apartment refurbishment.