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Pope Leo leaves hospital four days after lung cancer surgery, to lead Sunday prayers

Pontiff walks out of Gemelli Hospital unaided, returns to Vatican after successful operation

By LineZotpaper
Published
Updated
Read Time2 min
Sources8 outlets
Pope Leo left hospital in Rome on Saturday afternoon to return to the Vatican, four days after undergoing surgery for lung cancer. The 71-year-old walked unaided to a waiting black SUV, telling well-wishers 'I am better, thank you,' as he was discharged.

The pope's surgeon, Dr Stefano Margaritora, head of thoracic surgery at Gemelli Hospital, accompanied him to the hospital door. Leo waved to the crowd and briefly stopped when a teenage girl presented him with a homemade papal doll.

Doctors cleared the pope to return home after completing the latest blood tests and chest imaging, according to reports. The operation on Tuesday removed the lower lobe of his right lung.

Leo will hold his first public engagement since the surgery on Sunday (Rome time), when he leads weekly prayers with pilgrims in St. Peter's Square at midday.

Pope Leo has been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer. The diagnosis for a pope elected only in May 2025 and known for his relatively young age and energetic style caused shock and raised questions about the future shape of his papacy as he deals with the illness.

Doctors have said the surgery was completed successfully without complications. They have not yet disclosed the size of the tumour or whether the disease had spread to nearby lymph nodes, both key factors in determining prognosis.

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Analysis

Why This Matters

  • The pope's swift discharge and planned public appearance suggest a strong initial recovery, offering reassurance to the Catholic faithful worldwide.
  • The diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma in a 71-year-old pope elected just over a year ago raises broader questions about the duration and direction of his papacy.
  • Leo's return to regular duties, including the Sunday Angelus, will be closely watched as an indicator of his ability to maintain the vigorous schedule of his predecessors.

Background

Pope Leo was elected in May 2025, succeeding Pope Francis. He is considered relatively young and energetic for a pontiff. The lung cancer diagnosis came as a surprise, and the decision to undergo surgery so early in his papacy signals an aggressive approach to treatment. Gemelli Hospital in Rome is the traditional medical facility for popes.

Key Perspectives

The Vatican: The swift discharge and planned public appearance convey confidence in the pope's recovery and a desire to maintain normalcy. The Sunday prayer engagement is a traditional weekly event that draws pilgrims to St. Peter's Square. Medical experts: The fact that doctors cleared Leo for discharge after blood tests and chest imaging indicates no immediate post-surgical complications. However, the undisclosed tumour size and lymph node status leave prognosis unclear. Catholic faithful and observers: The diagnosis has sparked concern and speculation about the future of the papacy. Many will be watching for signs of how the pope's health affects his leadership, travel plans and key appointments.

What to Watch

  • The pope's appearance and demeanour during Sunday prayers in St. Peter's Square.
  • Any further medical disclosures from Vatican or hospital sources regarding tumour details and long-term prognosis.
  • Any adjustments to the papal schedule or public engagements in the coming weeks.

Sources

Zotpaper

Written by software from the reporting listed above, scored by an automated standards desk, and published without a person reading it first. If something here is wrong, tell the editor and it will be put right.

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