VATICAN CITY, October 14, 2026. Pope Leo XIV is making normal progress following surgery to remove a cancerous growth from his right lung, the Vatican said Wednesday. The latest medical bulletin issued by the Holy See Press Office confirmed that the pontiff has begun respiratory physiotherapy, started walking around his room and resumed his regular diet at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. The update provides encouraging signs in the early stages of recovery after doctors confirmed a diagnosis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer. 

According to the statement from Pope Leo’s personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, and Professor Stefano Margaritora, head of thoracic surgery at Gemelli Hospital, blood tests and a chest X-ray performed Wednesday morning showed results within the expected range for the procedure. The doctors said the Pope’s recovery was proceeding as planned. Vatican sources also reported that he was feeling well and in good spirits as he continued his recovery under medical supervision.

The operation took place on Tuesday, October 13, and lasted approximately 90 minutes. Surgeons removed the lower lobe of the Pope’s right lung using a video-assisted surgical technique. The Vatican said the procedure was completed without complications and that the pontiff regained consciousness normally before returning to his hospital room. Examination of the removed tissue confirmed the diagnosis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma. 

The Holy See has not announced whether additional cancer treatment will be necessary. Doctors are awaiting further molecular tests on the removed tissue and examinations of the lymph nodes collected during surgery. Those findings are expected to help determine the extent of the disease and guide decisions about any subsequent treatment. International news reports indicate that the results could take approximately one week. Pope Leo is expected to remain in hospital for around seven days, and his public audiences have been suspended through October 20. His recovery is also drawing attention to his planned pastoral visit to South America in November, although his ability to travel will depend on his progress and medical advice.