Pope to be discharged days after lung cancer surgery

What the report says

Pope Leo XIV is due to leave Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Saturday afternoon, just four days after surgery to remove a cancerous growth from his right lung, according to the BBC. The Vatican said he will be well enough to appear in public on Sunday to lead the traditional Angelus prayer and blessing in St Peter’s Square.

The article says the operation took place on Tuesday and lasted about 90 minutes, with doctors removing the lower lobe of the pope’s right lung. On Friday, the Vatican released photographs showing him celebrating Mass and giving communion to hospital staff. Medical updates cited by the BBC said tests indicated steady improvement, though further results checking whether the cancer has spread have not yet been made public.

The report also notes that the pope spoke by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, their first known conversation since June 2025. The Vatican said the call focused on dialogue and peace, as Russia’s war in Ukraine continues and civilian casualties rise. The pope separately appealed for a humanitarian ceasefire in the occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshkiy to allow evacuations and the delivery of food and medicine.

The expected appearance is notable because his public schedule had been cleared until 20 October. The BBC said the early return to public view may reassure Catholics, while questions remain over whether he will be fit for a planned trip to Latin America in early November.