Pope Leo XIV will not require additional lung cancer treatment after final tests showed that the disease was confined to the tumor, his doctors said Wednesday.
Dr. Luigi Carbone and Professor Stefano Margaritora shared the results slightly more than a week after surgeons removed a tumor from the pope’s right lung.
“The final histopathology and molecular testing reports on the tissue removed during the Holy Father’s surgery were issued today,” the doctors said in a statement.
“The results confirmed that the tumor was a lung adenocarcinoma and that the disease was localized. A subsequent oncological assessment has confirmed that no further treatment is necessary.”
The pope underwent the operation Oct. 13 at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. The surgery lasted about 90 minutes, while Leo spent roughly three hours in the operating room, according to the Holy See.
“The doctors said it was successful and there were no complications,” the Holy See press office said following the procedure.
Leo awoke normally and returned to his hospital room after a short observation period, Vatican News reported.
Pope Leo XIV addresses the crowd during the weekly general audience at St Peter’s Square in Vatican City, on October 21, 2026. (Massimo Valicchia/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
He left the hospital Saturday after blood tests and a chest X-ray determined that he was well enough to return to the Vatican. Thousands of supporters gathered outside, calling out “Papa!” as he departed.
Before his discharge, Leo visited the children’s oncology ward, where young patients had written to him during his stay.
Pope Leo reacts while sitting in a car as he leaves Gemelli Hospital following his lung surgery and cancer diagnosis, in Rome, Italy, October 17, 2026. (Remo Casilli/Reuters)
“Pope Leo, our prayers are for you,” a girl named Eleonora wrote in a letter published by Vatican News.
“May God, the Most Holy Virgin, and the guardian angels always protect you,” she added.
According to the Vatican, Eleonora’s mother told the pope that her daughter had recovered.
“Faith moves mountains,” Eleonora wrote. “God has heard our prayers.”