Pope Leo won't need further cancer treatment after lung surgery
Final pathology tests showed the Pope's lung adenocarcinoma remained localised after he had his lower right lung lobe removed.
Pope Leo will not need additional therapy following his lung cancer surgery, his doctors announced. The 71-year-old underwent the procedure on October 13, when surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung after he was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer.
Final tissue testing and molecular analysis confirmed the disease had not spread. Leo was discharged from hospital on Saturday and returned to St Peter's Square on Wednesday for his weekly audience with pilgrims.
His lead surgeon said there were no medical reasons preventing the Pope from travelling to South America in November, though the Vatican indicated he may need to adjust his schedule to aid recovery.
- 71 years old
- Pope's age
- October 13
- Surgery date
- Lung adenocarcinoma
- Cancer type
- Stefano Margaritora
- Lead surgeon
Why it mattersA clean pathology result means the Pope faces no ongoing treatment and can gradually resume full duties.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, but the Pope may proceed with his planned trip to Argentina, Peru and Uruguay in November.
Corroborated bythenightly.com.au·theguardian.com
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