Pope Leo has returned to the Vatican after spending four days in a Rome hospital following surgery to remove a cancerous section of his right lung.
The 71-year-old pontiff was discharged from Gemelli Hospital on Saturday, October 17, after doctors confirmed that his recovery was progressing well and that he could carry out routine daily activities without assistance.
Leo appeared cheerful as he walked to his waiting vehicle without support, waving to people gathered outside the hospital. He also exchanged greetings with well-wishers, including a 13-year-old Ukrainian girl receiving cancer treatment in Italy.
The pope underwent surgery on Tuesday to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after being diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer.
His medical team said the operation was completed successfully without complications. However, details about the size of the tumour and whether the cancer had spread to nearby lymph nodes have not been made public.
Following his discharge, Leo is expected to resume public engagements on Sunday by leading the weekly prayers for pilgrims gathered at St Peter’s Square from his Vatican apartment.
His diagnosis has raised concerns about how the illness could affect his duties, particularly as he is still relatively early in his papacy, having been elected in May 2025.
Despite the health concerns, his doctors have indicated that he could recover fully within another 10 days.
His lead surgeon, Dr Stefano Margaritora, also said there was no medical reason at present to cancel the pope’s planned visit to South America next month.
The trip, scheduled for November 6 to 17, is expected to take Leo to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru. Margaritora said the pontiff could be fit for the long-distance journey involving air travel in approximately three weeks.
According to the surgeon, the cancer was discovered unexpectedly during a routine abdominal examination.
Although the pope has been known for maintaining a busy schedule, his recent diagnosis has prompted some cardinals to express concern about his health and its potential implications for the Catholic Church.
Leo nevertheless continued some official duties while in hospital, including a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday. During the call, he urged a ceasefire to facilitate the delivery of essential supplies to Oleshky, a Ukrainian town under Russian control.
His return to the Vatican has brought relief to some pilgrims and supporters, although questions remain about the long-term outlook for his health as he prepares to resume his responsibilities.
