VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer following surgery at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, the Vatican has confirmed.

The 71-year-old pontiff underwent a successful operation on Tuesday, October 13, during which doctors removed the lower lobe of his right lung.

According to the Vatican, medical examinations confirmed lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer, which had been suspected during earlier tests.

The procedure lasted approximately 90 minutes and was completed without complications.

The Pope is reportedly recovering well and is expected to remain in hospital for about a week under medical observation.

His public engagements have been cancelled until October 20 to allow sufficient time for recovery.

The Vatican has not yet announced whether further treatment will be required.

The development has drawn international attention as the leader of the world's Catholic community continues his recovery.

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