Pope Leo Makes Swift Recovery, Discharged After Lung Cancer Surgery

Pope Leo has been discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, just four days after undergoing surgery for lung cancer, and is now poised to resume his public duties at the Vatican. The 71-year-old pontiff departed the hospital on Saturday afternoon following comprehensive medical examinations, including blood tests and chest imaging, which confirmed he was well enough to return home. Walking unaided to his waiting car, Pope Leo paused to engage with well-wishers gathered outside the medical facility, signaling his steady recovery.

The surgery, performed on Tuesday, involved the removal of the lower lobe of his right lung. This procedure followed a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, which is recognized as the most common form of lung cancer. Despite the gravity of the operation, his doctors have affirmed that it was completed successfully and without any complications. However, crucial details regarding the size of the tumor and whether the cancer had spread to nearby lymph nodes have not been disclosed. These factors are critical in determining the likely progression of the disease and the overall prognosis for the pope.

Pope Leo's first official public engagement since the operation is scheduled for Sunday. He is expected to lead the weekly prayers with pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square at noon local time (10:00 GMT), a significant step towards his return to full responsibilities. The diagnosis and subsequent surgery have, however, raised concerns about the health and the future leadership capacity of the pontiff. Elected in May 2025, Pope Leo is generally regarded as relatively young and energetic for the papal position, making his health status a matter of close observation for the Catholic Church.

His discharge marks a notable milestone in his recovery journey, though ongoing medical monitoring may still be necessary as he fully reinstates his responsibilities at the Vatican. As Pope Leo resumes his public engagements, the Catholic Church and global observers will closely watch for further updates on his health and the potential implications of his illness on his papacy.