Pope Leo XIV resumes some duties after undergoing surgery for lung cancer in Rome
The Vatican confirmed that the pope is recovering well following the surgery. Although he remains hospitalized, he is already celebrating mass and holding work meetings.
Pope Leo XIV is admitted to Gemelli Hospital for surgery. Oct. 13, 2025
Pope Leo XIV, 71, has resumed some of his regular activities while remaining hospitalized at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where he underwent surgery on Tuesday, Oct. 13, to remove a malignant tumor in his right lung.
According to Rome Reports, the pope met with Paolo Rudelli, substitute of the Vatican Secretariat of State, in his hospital room on Thursday. He was also able to celebrate mass and continue his administrative duties.
The diagnosis confirmed by doctors was lung adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that led to the removal of the lower lobe of his right lung. The operation lasted approximately 90 minutes and concluded without complications, confirmed Reuters.
X-ray showed good recovery of operated lung
In its latest medical report, released on Thursday, the Vatican stated that postoperative tests showed normal results and that an X-ray revealed good recovery of the operated lung. The pope also began physical therapy sessions and was able to carry out his daily activities independently, according to the EFE news agency.
However, the final results of the analysis of the removed tissue are still pending; these will help determine the extent of the disease and whether additional treatments will be necessary.
For the time being, the Holy See has suspended the pontiff's audiences and public activities until Oct. 20.
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Medical progress and schedule
The Vatican has emphasized that the pope's recovery is proceeding normally, although his full return to public duties will depend on upcoming medical evaluations.
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