VATICAN CITY — The tumor removed from Pope Leo XIV’s lung was localized, and he will not require any further treatment, Vatican News reported Oct. 21.
Doctors at Rome’s Gemelli hospital removed the lower lobe of his right lung Oct. 13 after medical tests detected a suspicious growth that was later confirmed to be cancerous. The tissue was diagnosed as adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that develops in glandular cells.
But the pontiff returned quickly to work.
Pope Leo appeared at the window of the study of the apostolic palace for the traditional Angelus address Oct. 18 after being discharged from the hospital late afternoon Oct. 17 — earlier than expected. The Vatican press office had told reporters that the pope was expected to remain hospitalized for about seven days and that all public events would be canceled through Oct. 20.
During his first full day back at the Vatican after surgery, Pope Leo thanked everyone who prayed for him.
“I have truly felt your support,” he said to applause after praying the Angelus with those gathered in St. Peter’s Square Oct. 18.
He said, “I am especially grateful to the doctors, nurses and all the staff.”
Speaking in his usual
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