Pope Leo won't need further treatment after lung cancer surgery, doctors say

Pope Leo XIV will not require any further treatment following surgery for lung cancer, his doctors announced Wednesday, according to NBC News and CBS News. The Vatican's press office released an update stating that final reports and tissue analyses confirmed the cancer was localized pulmonary adenocarcinoma.

The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery earlier this month at Rome's Gemelli Hospital to remove a lung nodule found during routine medical tests. The procedure involved removing the lower lobe of his right lung and lasted about 90 minutes, CBS News reported.

Doctors Dr. Luigi Carbone and Prof. Stefano Margaritora said the cancer was detected at a very early stage, and a subsequent oncological evaluation confirmed no further therapy is necessary. The discovery of the tumor was accidental during exams for other reasons, according to the surgeon.

After being discharged from the hospital, Pope Leo resumed public duties, delivering his traditional Sunday noon prayer at the Vatican and hosting his usual general audience. He expressed feeling close to those experiencing illness and frailty and thanked well-wishers for their prayers.

The pope's upcoming trip to South America, scheduled for November 6, remains planned as he continues his recovery at the Vatican, NBC News noted.