Pope Leo diagnosed with lung cancer and has part of right lung removed, Vatican says
The gist
Pope Leo XIV was diagnosed with lung cancer after surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung.
The 71-year-old's first hospital stay of his pontificate cancels public events until October 20.
How it unfolded
- Oct 8, 2026Pope Leo XIV attends holy mass for the inauguration of the academic year of the pontifical universities at St. Peter's Basilica.
- Oct 11, 2026The Vatican says Pope Leo will undergo surgery after a nodular lesion was found in his lung.
- Oct 12, 2026Pope Leo heads to the hospital for lung nodule surgery.