Pope Leo XIV’s Condition After Lung Cancer Surgery

Pope Leo XIV left hospital and returned to the Vatican on Saturday (17 October 2026), four days after undergoing surgery to remove cancer from his right lung. The medical team said the 71-year-old head of the Catholic Church was well enough to continue his recovery outside hospital.

The Pope’s return was greeted with cheers and applause from supporters waiting at Gemelli Hospital in Rome. He was seen walking through the hospital lobby, smiling, shaking hands and waving to those who had come to welcome him.

Before leaving, Leo spoke with the doctors who had treated him and several hospital officials. He also took time to meet a Ukrainian girl who had recovered from cancer and had come to pray for his recovery.

Soon afterwards, the black SUV carrying the Pope was seen entering the Vatican through a side gate.

His return brought an end to several days of uncertainty that had worried the Vatican and Catholics around the world. The Catholic Church is estimated to have around 1.4 billion followers across various countries.

Doctors had earlier said Leo was fit to leave hospital. His surgeon, Stefano Margaritora, said the Pope’s clinical condition was very satisfactory.

‘His clinical condition is truly satisfactory,’ Margaritora told Vatican News, as quoted by Channel NewsAsia.

He estimated that Leo would need about another 10 days to recover fully.

Tumour found by chance

Pope Leo had been receiving treatment at Gemelli Hospital since Tuesday (13 October 2026). During the operation, doctors removed the lower part of his right lung to take out the cancer.

Margaritora explained that the cancer was discovered by chance when Leo underwent a routine X-ray examination of his abdomen. The scan showed a small spot at the base of his right lung.

Although the operation was described as a routine procedure, the doctor praised Leo’s commitment to his recovery.

‘He really put his heart and soul into it, like the most motivated patient,’ Margaritora said.

He said Leo’s determination to recover quickly and effectively in every respect deserved recognition.

Doctors are now awaiting the results of further tests to determine the next medical steps.

Pope gradually resumes duties

As he recovers, Leo has begun returning to some of his duties. On Friday (16 October 2026), he spoke by telephone with Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging a ceasefire in the Ukrainian city of Oleshky, which is under Russian occupation.

The Vatican also said the Pope planned to lead the Angelus prayer on Sunday (18 October 2026) from the window of the Apostolic Palace overlooking St Peter’s Square, continuing a longstanding practice.

Before being discharged, Leo celebrated Mass on Saturday afternoon in a room on the hospital’s 10th floor, where he had spent the past few days recovering.

Despite the positive signs in his health, his planned apostolic journey to South America remains under consideration.

Leo is due to visit Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from 6 to 17 November 2026. Peru has particular significance for the Pope, who spent around two decades there as a missionary.

Margaritora said there was no medical reason at present to cancel the trip.

‘Overall, I believe that in about 10 days the Pope will be fully recovered,’ he said.

However, the final decision on the journey will depend on how Leo’s health develops and the results of further medical tests.