The story so far · 4 days, October 17 to 22, 2026
One Turn followed this story across 4 editions, from Rome, Italy on October 17, 2026. Newest first.
Pope Leo XIV, born in the United States, was elected in 2025. He underwent surgery for lung adenocarcinoma this month.
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Doctors for Pope Leo XIV said final tissue and molecular tests confirmed the lung tumor removed on October 13 was localized and no further therapy is needed. The Vatican released the statement on Wednesday.
Why it matters: The pope's health affects the leadership of the Catholic Church, which has more than a billion members.
Sources: Sky News, CBC News · See it on the globe
Pope Leo XIV recited the Angelus from the Apostolic Palace balcony, thanking well-wishers in his first public event since lung cancer surgery, and said he would gradually return to his duties.
Why it matters: The pontiff's health matters to the world's 1.4 billion Catholics.
Sources: NPR, BBC News · See it on the globe
Pope Leo XIV returned to the Vatican days after surgery removed part of his right lung for adenocarcinoma, and thanked crowds in St Peter's Square on Sunday. He said he will gradually resume duties, and his surgeon saw no clinical reason to cancel a planned Latin America trip next month.
Why it matters: The pontiff's health matters to the world's 1.3 billion Catholics and his planned travels.
Sources: BBC News, NPR, CBC News · See it on the globe
Pope Leo XIV was pictured for the first time since surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from his right lung, celebrating Mass at Rome's Gemelli hospital.
Sources: France 24, BBC News · See it on the globe