Pope Leo is expected to leave hospital on Saturday afternoon after undergoing surgery for lung cancer, with medical tests indicating he is fit to return to his residence at the Vatican, the Holy See said.
The 71-year-old pontiff is also expected to lead prayers from his Vatican apartment on Sunday, addressing pilgrims gathered in St Peter’s Square. It would be his first public engagement since he was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.
Leo was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer. Surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung during an operation on Tuesday. The Vatican said the procedure was completed successfully and without complications.
Doctors have not disclosed the size of the tumour or whether the cancer had spread to nearby lymph nodes. Those details are important in determining the stage of the disease and assessing the outlook for treatment.
The diagnosis has drawn attention to the health of a pope who was elected in May 2025 and had been seen as relatively young and energetic for the role. His illness has also raised questions about how he will manage the demands of the papacy while recovering.
The Vatican has not provided further details about his long-term treatment plan. His expected discharge and planned Sunday prayers mark a return to public duties, although his recovery from surgery will remain a key consideration in the weeks ahead.
