In brief
Pope Leo XIV has been declared free from any remaining cancer following an operation to excise a malignant growth in his lung. The Vatican confirmed the tumor was localised and no further treatment is required. The 71‑year‑old pontiff was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital and returned to St Peter’s Square for his first general audience since surgery. He continues to preach messages of peace, having recently spoken with world leaders.
Following a successful operation to remove a malignant growth from his lung, Pope Leo XIV has been cleared of any remaining cancerous cells, according to a statement from the Vatican.
The 71‑year‑old pontiff’s tumor was confirmed as a lung adenocarcinoma and was localised. An oncological assessment after surgery has ruled out the need for further treatment.
Pope Leo was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital four days after the 90‑minute procedure and returned to St Peter’s Square for his first weekly general audience since the operation.
He has also been active in diplomatic outreach, contacting Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to urge ceasefires and peace talks as the war in Ukraine continues.
With a planned trip to Latin America in early November, the pontiff remains determined to continue his duties while celebrating his health recovery.
