Pope Leo XIV Returned to the Vatican After Cancer Surgery: What is Known About His Condition

Pope Leo XIV was discharged from a Roman hospital four days after surgery, during which the lower lobe of his right lung was removed. The surgical intervention confirmed the diagnosis — adenocarcinoma of the lung. Before his discharge, the pontiff underwent examinations, including blood tests and a chest X-ray. According to the doctors' conclusions, his condition allows him to continue recovery in the Vatican. Several dozen believers greeted Leo XIV outside the hospital. The Pope greeted those gathered, shook hands with the medical staff, and blessed the attendees. Results of additional examinations are still pending. They are expected to help doctors determine whether the pontiff will require further treatment. Already on Sunday, October 18, Leo XIV [plans](https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2026-10/pope-leo-xiv-discharged-from-hospital-lung-surgery.html) to deliver the traditional Sunday prayer in the Vatican. In November, the head of the Catholic Church has a trip planned to Latin America. However, his work schedule may be revised depending on his health condition. Thus, the pope has returned to his usual life in the Vatican, but a final decision regarding further treatment has not yet been made.