Pope Leo has 'peaceful night' after lung cancer surgery, says Vatican

The Pope spent a peaceful night in hospital after having surgery to treat lung cancer, the Vatican said.

Leo had part of his right lung removed during Tuesday's procedure and he was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma - the most common form of the disease.

The Pope's surgeon and his personal doctor said the 90-minute surgery at Rome's Gemelli University Hospital went smoothly.

The entire lower lobe of his right lung was cut away to try to remove all traces of cancer. Humans have three lobes in the right lung and two in the left.

Pre-operative tests suggested adenocarcinoma, and this was confirmed during the operation, the Vatican said.

A spokesperson said on Wednesday morning that more information on the Pope's condition would be released later.

Well-wishes for the Pope have poured in from around the world, including from the King who will write privately to the pontiff following his diagnosis.

The Vatican hasn't yet commented on the size of the tumour or whether it has spread to the lymph nodes - crucial factors in the prognosis.

The latest update made no mention of future treatment, and the Vatican said doctors were not currently discussing chemotherapy or other therapies pending test results.

Leo, 71, is expected to remain in hospital for about a week and his diary has been cleared until 20 October.

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The American pontiff, who was elected in May 2025, has no previously known health issues and is believed to be physically active, enjoying tennis and swimming at his Castel Gandolfo retreat this summer.

Archbishop Richard Moth, who is Archbishop of Westminster and president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales, asked people to pray that the Pope "may be restored to full health after a period of rest and recuperation".

He added: "I ask that Catholics in England and Wales, and indeed all people of goodwill, pray for Pope Leo - in our homes and in our parishes - that he may be restored to full health after a period of rest and recuperation.

"We also remember all those who are experiencing illness at this time, and keep them, their families and those who care for the sick in our prayers."

Leo said on Sunday that his lung problem was spotted during a recent check-up.

Speaking in his noon blessing in St Peter's Square, he said doctors discovered a "well-defined lung nodule, detected at a very early stage and clearly localised".

The Pope is scheduled to visit Uruguay, Argentina and Peru next month.

Leo lived in Peru for many years as a missionary and bishop and is believed to be keen for the trip to go ahead.

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