Pope Leo XIV is recovering in hospital after undergoing surgery to remove a cancerous growth from his right lung, according to the Vatican.
The 71-year-old pontiff underwent the operation on Tuesday at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where doctors removed the lower part of his right lung.
The Vatican said the procedure was completed without complications, adding that the growth was discovered during a routine medical examination.
Before the surgery, Pope Leo reportedly told worshippers that doctors had detected a small growth in his lung at a very early stage.
The head of the Catholic Church is expected to remain in hospital for approximately one week as he recovers from the procedure.
His public engagements have been cancelled through October 20 to allow him time to recuperate.
Meanwhile, the Vatican has yet to confirm whether the Pope will proceed with his planned trip to South America next month.
Further details about his recovery and future engagements are expected to be provided by the Vatican.
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