Pope Leo XIV had a localised pulmonary adenocarcinoma, doctors have confirmed following the removal of a lesion from his lung earlier this month.
The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery after the nodular lesion was detected at an early stage. The operation was successful, and the tissue was examined while he recovered.
Dr Luigi Carbone, the Pope’s doctor, and Professor Stefano Margaritora, who led the surgical team, said the final test results had confirmed the diagnosis.
“Today, the final histological reports and molecular biology test results were released regarding the tissue removed during the Holy Father’s surgery,” they said in a statement.
“The results confirmed that the (pope’s) tumor was a pulmonary adenocarcinoma and that the disease was localised.”
Pulmonary adenocarcinoma is a common form of lung cancer, accounting for roughly 40 to 50 per cent of cases. While it is strongly associated with tobacco use, it also occurs in non-smokers, including Pope Leo.
The medical team said a further assessment had found that “no further treatment is necessary”.
The Pope cancelled public events until Tuesday as he recovered from the operation. Professor Margaritora said there were “no clinical reasons” to prevent him from travelling to South America in November.
However, the Vatican’s secretary of state has indicated that Leo may need to adjust the pace of his schedule while continuing his recovery.
The initial news of the Pope’s condition prompted messages of support from around the world. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Leo was “a source of inspiration to Catholics right around the world – and here in Australia” and wished him a quick recovery.
