The Vatican confirmed that Pope Leo XIV was diagnosed with lung cancer after a surgical procedure to remove the lower lobe of his right lung at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.

The operation, carried out on Tuesday 13 October, lasted about 90 minutes, concluded without reported complications, and the pontiff regained consciousness before resting in his hospital room.

Pathology of tissue removed during the surgery identified adenocarcinoma, a common subtype of lung cancer.

Pope Leo XIV had disclosed on 11 October that doctors had found a small lung nodule during routine examinations and had recommended its surgical removal.

The Vatican has not yet clarified whether cancer cells were found in nearby lymph nodes, the exact size of the tumour, or whether additional treatment will be required.

The health update has prompted speculation about the Pope’s planned November visit to South America, which remains contingent on his recovery.

At 71, the pontiff had not previously been known for serious health problems, making this diagnosis a significant development in his papacy.

The Roman Catholic Church, serving roughly 1.4 billion adherents worldwide, continues its administrative functions while the Pope recuperates, with any further treatment likely to shape his upcoming public engagements.