Pope Leo XIV holds first general audience since lung cancer surgery — needs no further treatment
Editorial illustration — Press Pass USAPope Leo XIV held his first general audience since undergoing lung cancer surgery on Wednesday, October 21, greeting pilgrims in St. Peter's Square — and the Vatican confirmed that evening that no further treatment is necessary.
The 71-year-old pontiff had an operation on October 13 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, where doctors found a localized nodule. He was discharged from Rome's Gemelli Hospital on October 17 and made his first public appearance the next day at the Sunday Angelus, thanking the faithful for their prayers.
"The results confirmed that it was pulmonary adenocarcinoma and that the disease was localized. A subsequent oncological assessment confirmed that no further treatment is necessary," the Vatican Press Office said in its October 21 statement, citing the pope's doctors.
At the audience, the pope continued his catechesis series on the Second Vatican Council, reflecting on marriage and the family — and opened with gratitude: "Thank you for the support of your prayers." The pope is still expected to undertake his November 6–17 trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru, though the Vatican has said his pace may be adjusted to aid recovery.
Sources: Reuters (Oct 19, 2026); EWTN (Oct 22, 2026).
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