Shape of Pope Leo’s papacy more uncertain after cancer diagnosis
Medical experts say the pope's prognosis will depend on several factors, including whether the cancer had spread to his lymph nodes.
VATICAN CITY – The papacy of Pope Leo XIV has become increasingly uncertain following the recent diagnosis of lung cancer. Upon ascending to the papacy in May 2025, at the age of 69, Pope Leo XIV was described as energetic and in good health, a sharp contrast to his predecessor Francis, who had become frail by the end of his 12-year papacy at the age of 88.
The Vatican's announcement on Tuesday that Pope Leo XIV, now 71, had undergone surgery to remove part of his right lung has raised concerns among the world's 1.4 billion Catholics.
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- Pope Leo back on his feet after shock cancer diagnosis koreatimes.co.kr
- Pope back on his feet, eating normally following cancer diagnosis cbc.ca
- Pope Leo’s brother also battling cancer punchng.com
- Pope Leo back on his feet after shock cancer diagnosis japantoday.com
- Pope Leo back on his feet after shock cancer diagnosis channelnewsasia.com
- Pope Leo out of bed, progress 'normal' after cancer operation batimes.com.ar
- Lung cancer rates in non-smokers like Pope Leo are rising. How can you catch it early? theage.com.au
- Lung cancer rates in non-smokers like Pope Leo are rising. How can you catch it early? smh.com.au
