Pope Leo XIV has returned to the Vatican after four days in hospital following surgery for lung cancer, with doctors reporting continued improvement as he prepares to resume public duties.
The 70-year-old pontiff left Rome’s Gemelli University Hospital on Saturday, 17 October, saying he felt “much better”, according to reports. Doctors removed the lower lobe of his right lung during surgery on Tuesday, 13 October, and confirmed a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer.
The Vatican said medical checks showed he was fit to leave hospital. He is scheduled to lead the Catholic Church’s traditional Angelus prayer from the Apostolic Palace on Sunday.
Despite his hospital stay, Pope Leo continued some duties during his recovery, including meeting senior aides, celebrating Mass in a hospital chapel and speaking by telephone with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
His next major engagement is a planned visit to South America from 6 to 17 November, including Uruguay, Argentina and Peru. The trip would involve extensive travel, including flights and helicopter journeys, although his recovery remains an important consideration.
The Vatican has not yet provided full details of the cancer’s stage or any further treatment that may be required. The results of additional tests will help determine the next steps in his care.
Pope Leo, born in Chicago, became the first US-born pope when he was elected in May 2025. He spent decades working in South America and is a naturalised Peruvian citizen.
His return to the Vatican marks an important step in his recovery, although his medical team will continue to monitor his condition as he resumes his responsibilities as leader of the worldwide Catholic Church.
