Pope Leo XIV cleared of further cancer treatment after surgery

Pope Leo XIV's doctors said on October 21, 2026, that the 71-year-old pontiff needs no further cancer treatment. Surgeons at Rome's Gemelli Hospital removed a small growth from his lung on October 13. Tests confirmed it was an early-stage lung cancer called pulmonary adenocarcinoma. Because doctors caught it early, the cancer had not spread. Physicians Luigi Carbone and Stefano Margaritora said no chemotherapy or radiation is necessary. The pope left hospital on October 17 and returned to public duties on October 20, when he appeared at his apartment window to lead a prayer. The growth was found during routine health checks. The pope has never smoked and is known for staying active, playing tennis and swimming regularly.