Pope Leo XIV leaves hospital after lung cancer surgery

AI-generated briefing · First published 2026-10-17 16:25:30 UTC

Pope Leo XIV left Rome's Gemelli Hospital on Saturday, four days after lung cancer surgery, and returned to the Vatican.

Pope Leo XIV, 71, left Rome's Gemelli Hospital on Saturday afternoon and returned to the Vatican after doctors confirmed he was well enough to be discharged following surgery that removed the lower lobe of his right lung. [1] [2] [3]

The pope walked unaided, waved to well-wishers and said, "I am better, thank you." He is expected to lead the Angelus prayer on Sunday. [1] [2]

Sources

1. Pope Leo leaves hospital after cancer surgery

   DW English · 2026-10-17 13:59:00 UTC · Full text

2. Pope Leo XIV leaves hospital days after lung cancer surgery

   NPR World · 2026-10-17 15:10:14 UTC · Full text

3. Pope Leo leaves hospital after lung cancer surgery

   Al Jazeera · 2026-10-17 15:47:52 UTC · Summary only

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