Pope Leo XIV was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Saturday, 4 days after present process surgery for lung cancer, and returned to the Vatican.
The 71-year-old pontiff walked to his automobile with out help and briefly interacted with well-wishers gathered exterior the hospital earlier than departing.
“I am better, thank you,” Leo stated as he was pushed away in a black sports activities utility automobile.
Leo underwent surgery on Tuesday to take away the decrease lobe of his proper lung after medical doctors found a nodule suspected to be cancerous. The operation confirmed that he had adenocarcinoma, the most typical type of lung cancer.
His medical doctors described the process as profitable and stated it had been accomplished with out issues. However, they haven’t disclosed the scale of the tumour or whether or not the cancer has unfold to close by lymph nodes, particulars that would assist decide his prognosis.
The analysis has raised considerations concerning the well being of the comparatively younger and energetic pontiff, who was elected pope in May 2025, and its potential implications for his papacy.
Despite the well being setback, Leo is predicted to steer the standard weekly prayer with pilgrims in St Peter’s Square at midday on Sunday, marking his first public engagement because the operation. The prayer is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. GMT.
