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Pope Leo XIV undergoes successful lung surgery to remove cancerous growth

Pope Leo XIV has successfully undergone a 90-minute surgical procedure to remove a cancerous growth from his right lung. The Vatican confirmed the pontiff recovered normally following the operation conducted on Tuesday.

LSN India · 13 October 2026

Pope Leo XIV was admitted for the surgical removal of a malignant tumour from his right lung in a procedure that lasted approximately 90 minutes. Vatican officials released a statement confirming that the operation was completed as planned and that the 94-year-old pontiff regained consciousness without complications.

The Vatican provided limited additional details regarding the pontiff's condition or the specifics of the surgical intervention. Medical personnel overseeing the Pope's care have not disclosed information about staging, prognosis, or the planned course of post-operative treatment.

The surgery represents a significant medical intervention for the elderly pontiff, who has faced various health challenges in recent years. The Vatican has maintained its customary discretion regarding the Pope's medical affairs, releasing only essential information to the public and media.

Following the successful completion of the procedure, Pope Leo XIV is expected to remain under close medical observation during his recovery period. The Vatican indicated it would provide further updates on the pontiff's condition as appropriate.