Pope Leo XIV discharged after lung cancer surgery, expected to lead Sunday prayer

Pope Leo XIV was discharged from Rome's Gemelli Hospital on Saturday, four days after undergoing surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung for lung cancer. The 71-year-old pontiff walked unassisted to his vehicle, briefly interacted with well-wishers, and said 'I am better, thank you' as he departed. His medical team cleared him for discharge after reviewing blood tests and chest imaging scans confirming the adenocarcinoma removal procedure was successful and complication-free.

Doctors have not disclosed the tumor size or whether cancer spread to nearby lymph nodes, leaving questions about his long-term prognosis. The diagnosis has raised concerns about the health of the relatively young pope, elected in May 2025, and potential implications for his papacy. Despite this health setback, Leo is expected to lead the traditional weekly prayer with pilgrims in St Peter's Square at noon on Sunday (10:00 a.m. GMT), marking his first public engagement since the operation.

While the successful surgery and quick discharge are positive signs, the undisclosed details about cancer progression mean observers will closely watch his ability to resume full papal duties. His Sunday appearance will be the first indicator of his recovery trajectory and stamina for the demanding schedule ahead.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/10/18/pope-leo-xiv-discharged-from-hospital-after-lung-cancer-surgery/