Pope Leo doesn’t need further treatment for lung cancer, doctors say

Vatican City (AP) — Pope Leo XIV has been told by his doctors that he does not require any additional treatment for his lung cancer, as follow-up tests have confirmed the disease remains localized. The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery last week to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, which was diagnosed as adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer.

After leaving the hospital four days post-surgery, four days ahead of the initially planned week-long stay, the pope resumed his duties. Personal physician Dr. Luigi Carbone and surgeon Dr. Stefano Margaritora stated that the final post-operative tests on the removed tissue have confirmed the initial diagnosis, with no evidence of cancer spread.

Additional treatment would be considered if tests revealed signs of cancer spread or certain aggressive traits. Surgeon Margoritora noted that the cancer was likely detected early, as the pope's nodule was found incidentally during a routine examination. Despite the surgery, Pope Leo XIV maintained his schedule, participating in significant events like a call with Russian President Putin and two public appearances at the Vatican.

His upcoming trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, scheduled for November 6-17, is deemed achievable, as no clinical reasons prevent the journey, which includes numerous flights and helicopter rides.