Pope Leo to gradually resume duties after lung cancer surgery

The Sansasyonel - International (English) · Oct 18, 2026 · 1m

Pope Leo announced that he will slowly return to his duties following surgery to remove a cancerous tumor from his lung. During his first public appearance after the procedure, he spoke to a gathering in St. Peter’s Square at Sunday's Angelus. The 71-year-old pontiff was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma after surgeons took out a portion of his right lung. He expressed gratitude to those who had prayed for him and mentioned that this time had brought him closer to others dealing with illness. On Saturday, Leo left Rome’s Gemelli hospital when medical staff determined he was well enough…