Pope Leo XIV has been discharged from hospital in Rome, four days after undergoing surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from his right lung, the Vatican has announced.
The 71-year-old pontiff left Agostino Gemelli University Hospital on Saturday, October 17, 2026, and returned to the Vatican after doctors confirmed that his recovery was progressing well. He walked unaided from the hospital and waved to well-wishers who had gathered to see him.
The Vatican said the decision to discharge the Pope followed medical assessments, including blood tests and a chest X-ray, which showed that his condition was stable enough for him to leave hospital.
Leo underwent surgery on Tuesday, October 13, after doctors identified a suspicious nodule in his right lung. During the operation, surgeons removed the lower lobe of the lung, and examination of the tissue confirmed a diagnosis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer. The Vatican reported that the operation was successful and that no complications occurred.
During his hospital stay, the Pope’s recovery progressed steadily. He began respiratory physiotherapy, walked around his room and resumed eating normally. He also celebrated Mass with medical personnel in a room prepared for the purpose inside the hospital.
The Vatican had initially indicated that Leo might remain in hospital for about a week. However, doctors cleared him for discharge earlier than expected after reviewing his post-operative condition.
Before leaving, the Pope expressed appreciation to the medical team that treated him. He also briefly acknowledged people waiting outside the hospital, offering reassurance about his condition.
Following his return to the Vatican, Leo is scheduled to lead the traditional Angelus prayer from the window of the papal apartment on Sunday, October 18. The Vatican has not announced any further changes to his schedule beyond the previously communicated adjustments to allow for recovery.
Questions remain about whether the Pope will require additional treatment. The available medical updates have not provided full details about the extent of the cancer or whether further treatment will be necessary.
Leo, who became head of the Catholic Church in May 2025, has continued to carry out some duties during his hospitalisation, including meetings and diplomatic communication. His recent illness has drawn messages of support from Catholics and leaders around the world.
His discharge marks an important step in his recovery, although doctors’ assessments and any further medical findings will determine the next stages of his treatment and return to a fuller public schedule.