Pope Leo XIV undergoes successful lung cancer surgery in Rome

Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer, the Vatican has confirmed, after undergoing surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. The 71-year-old pontiff had the 90-minute procedure on Tuesday at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where doctors subsequently identified the condition as lung adenocarcinoma.

According to a Vatican medical bulletin, the operation went smoothly with no complications, and the Pope woke up normally before being moved back to his hospital room after a short observation period.

The Vatican said the growth was first discovered during routine medical checks. The Pope is expected to remain hospitalised for roughly a week as he recovers.

Before the surgery, large crowds gathered outside the hospital to show their support, cheering and offering well wishes as his car arrived. The Pope responded by waving and smiling through the vehicle's lowered rear window. On arriving at the hospital steps, he was greeted by staff members who expressed sympathy and offered reassurance, with the Pope responding warmly with a smile and a shrug.