Pope Leo XIV has shared his first public message since being diagnosed with lung cancer, thanking wellwishers for their prayers and support. The Vatican confirmed that the pontiff spent a peaceful night in hospital following surgery, with an update on his condition to be released later.
Doctors discovered a lung adenocarcinoma during a routine health check, leading to a planned procedure on Tuesday. The 71-year-old pontiff was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where the lower lobe of his right lung was removed. His brother, Louis Prevost, also diagnosed with cancer, expressed optimism about the early detection of the disease.
The Vatican announced that Pope Leo had breakfast after a good night in hospital, two days after the surgery. The pontiff’s recovery has been described as steady, with no immediate complications reported. His brother noted that the cancer was caught in its early stages, which has been a key factor in the positive outlook.
Pope Leo’s diagnosis has drawn attention from global leaders, including US President Donald Trump, who expressed hope for his recovery. Meanwhile, King Charles III of the United Kingdom has planned to send a private message of goodwill to the pope.
The pontiff’s condition has been closely followed by the Catholic community and international media, with updates provided regularly by the Vatican. The surgery was conducted as a planned procedure, and the pontiff’s health remains a priority for both religious and public figures.
