What we know about Pope Leo XIV’s lung cancer operation

Pope Leo XIV underwent a successful 90-minute lung cancer surgery on October 13, 2026, to remove a tumour from his right lung, according to medical experts. Pulmonary adenocarcinoma, the type of tumour removed, originates from a primary lung cancer, which is considered favorable as it implies the cancer did not spread from another location.

Non-small cell lung cancer, of which adenocarcinoma is a common form, is the most prevalent type. While smoking is a primary risk factor, many lung cancers today affect non-smokers or former smokers. The five-year survival rate for localized non-small cell lung cancer, such as adenocarcinoma, ranges from 63% to 67%, but early detection can boost this rate to 80% to 98%.

The Vatican confirmed that Pope Leo XIV had the lower lobe of his right lung removed, a standard procedure. Experts believe the Pope's prognosis is promising, as the cancer was likely caught at an early stage and has not spread. Additional treatments like chemotherapy or radiation may be required depending on factors such as the cancer's size, aggressiveness, and genetic characteristics.