Pope Leo diagnosed with lung cancer as Vatican confirms surgery

Pope Leo has been diagnosed with lung cancer and has undergone surgery to remove part of his right lung, according to a statement issued by the Vatican.

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, the 71-year-old leader of the Catholic Church underwent the operation to remove the affected part of his right lung, the statement said.

Pope Leo spent about three hours in the operating theatre, while the surgical procedure itself lasted around 90 minutes.

The Vatican said the operation was successful and that no complications had occurred.

AFP reported that Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Wednesday his “thoughts and prayers” were with Pope Leo XIV after the pontiff had a cancerous tumour removed from his right lung.

“Pope Leo XIV is a source of inspiration to Catholics right around the world — and here in Australia,” Albanese said in a statement, adding: “He is a voice for peace, humanity and reason in our modern world”.