Pope Leo has lung cancer
By NJ Chicaa
@NJChicaa (128081)
United States
October 14, 2026 12:29pm CST
It was announced initially that doctors had found a small nodule on his lung. He underwent surgery in Rome yesterday and wound up having part of the lower right lobe of his lung removed. I haven't seen any reporting about further treatment required.
He is young at 71 and is still planning to visit South America next month. He spent over a decade in Peru (I think). I'm not religious (but was raised Catholic) but I do pay attention to the news and news about the first ever American-born pope.
I hope that he has a successful recovery. It is cool to see an American pope. He even sent a blessing to his favorite baseball team--the White Sox. 
8 people like this
6 responses
@FourWalls (88784)
• United States
3h
That blessing didn’t work, they went up two games to none and lost the series.
Seriously, it was also announced yesterday that his older brother Louis has multiple myeloma. 
Im not Catholic but I certainly want them both to beat this medical problem and remain healthy for years to come.
Seriously, it was also announced yesterday that his older brother Louis has multiple myeloma. Im not Catholic but I certainly want them both to beat this medical problem and remain healthy for years to come.1 person likes this
@Juliaacv (57643)
• Canada
2h
My aunt was a missionary in Chiclayo, Peru, and personally knows the Pope from his days there.
From what I have read about the type of cancer that he has, it is the most 'common' form of lung cancer, and family history can play a large role in who does and does not get it.
1 person likes this
