The key facts

  • Pope Leo XIV underwent surgery on Tuesday to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after a cancerous growth was detected
  • On the fourth day of hospitalization, blood tests and an X-ray confirmed steady improvement
  • The Pope is fully able to carry out everyday activities on his own and continues respiratory physiotherapy

Doctors report steady improvement in the Pope's condition

Vatican doctors reported a steady improvement in the condition of 70-year-old Pope Leo XIV after lung surgery. According to Vatican News, the official press organ of the Holy See, blood tests and a chest X-ray conducted on Friday morning confirmed progress in the pontiff's overall condition. Friday marked the fourth day of his hospitalization at Rome's Gemelli hospital.

Details of the surgery and recovery

The surgery was performed on Tuesday: surgeons removed the lower lobe of the Pope's right lung after doctors detected a cancerous growth. According to the medics, respiratory physiotherapy sessions are continuing. Doctors also noted that the pontiff is fully able to carry out his usual everyday activities on his own.