What to know about Pope Leo XIV's lung cancer diagnosis
Pope Leo XIV has begun recovering from surgery to remove a cancerous nodule in his lung, according to a statement from the Vatican and papal physicians on Wednesday.
TL;DR
- Pope Leo XIV has undergone surgery to remove a cancerous nodule in his right lung.
- The diagnosis confirmed lung adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer.
- The pontiff is recovering well, resuming regular activities and diet.
- His planned international trip to South America from November 6-17 remains unchanged.
- The Vatican's openness about his health is an unusual move.
- Lung adenocarcinoma is common and can occur in non-smokers.
- Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide.