Cancer found after Pope had part of his lung removed during 'successful' surgery

The Pope has undergone surgery to treat lung cancer.

The Vatican confirmed the pontiff had a lower lobe of his right lung removed during the procedure which was described as successful and which went as planned.

An examination of the lung revealed a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer.

The operation lasted around 90 minutes, said the Vatican.

It is the first major health issue of his 17-month tenure.

Pope Leo XIV was originally sent for treatment at Rome's Gemelli hospital for the removal of the small nodule, which he said on Sunday was spotted early during a recent check-up.

The Vatican said in a statement on Tuesday: "The Holy Father underwent thoracic surgery as scheduled.

"To ensure a complete resection, the lower lobe of the right lung was removed using a video-assisted technique.

"Intraoperative histological examination confirmed the diagnosis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma, as suspected from preoperative tests.

"Following the surgery, the Pope woke up normally and, after a brief period of observation, returned to his room on the 10th floor.

"The procedure was completed successfully, within the expected timeframe and as planned."

Professor Stefano Margaritora, the hospital's chief thoracic surgeon, led the operation.

Pope Leo left the Vatican ahead of the surgery shortly before 1pm local time, and shook hands with several officials after arriving at the hospital.

Some well-wishers shouted 'auguri' (best wishes) as he headed in via the main entrance.

The pontiff is expected to recover in hospital for about a week, the Vatican said - with all of his public events cancelled until 20 October.

It is not yet clear what tests have been performed on the nodule.

Pope Leo, who is originally from the US, has no previously known health problems and is physically active, with weekly games of tennis and swimming at the papal summer retreat in Castel Gandolfo.

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He originally announced the diagnosis during his weekly Sunday noon blessing from St Peter's Square in the Vatican City.

The pontiff told pilgrims: "The doctors consider it appropriate to intervene, and so, following their advice, I have decided to undergo surgery to have it removed.

"I thank you and entrust myself to your prayers."

(c) Sky News 2026: Cancer found after Pope had part of his lung removed during 'successful' surgery