Pope Leo XIV has been discharged from hospital in Rome. This comes four days after he underwent surgery to remove a cancerous growth from his right lung.
According to Reuters, the 71-year-old pontiff left Gemelli Hospital on Saturday afternoon. He returned to the Vatican after doctors confirmed that his recovery had progressed sufficiently.
The Pope underwent surgery on Tuesday following the discovery of a cancerous nodule in the lower section of his right lung.
Medical officials confirmed that the procedure was successful and completed without complications.
Pope Leo returns to Vatican
Before approving his discharge, doctors conducted blood tests and chest imaging to assess the pontiff’s condition.
The results showed that he had recovered sufficiently to continue his recuperation outside the hospital.
The Pope was seen walking without assistance as he left the medical facility.
His surgery involved removing the lower lobe of his right lung.
Doctors subsequently confirmed that the growth was lung adenocarcinoma, a form of lung cancer.
However, further details about the size of the tumour and whether the cancer had spread were not immediately disclosed.
Vatican announces Pope’s next public appearance
Following his discharge, the Vatican announced that Pope Leo would lead the traditional Angelus prayer on Sunday. He will do this from the window of the papal apartment overlooking St Peter’s Square.
The appearance will mark his first public engagement since undergoing surgery.
The pontiff had continued some official duties while receiving treatment at the hospital.
He also participated in religious activities during his recovery.
Pope Leo, elected in May 2025, is the first American to lead the Roman Catholic Church.
The Vatican has not announced major changes to his upcoming schedule. However, it is expected to provide further information about his recovery and medical care.
The discharge comes amid messages of support and prayers from Catholics around the world following the announcement of his diagnosis.
