Little-known lung cancer symptoms 'people miss' as Pope Leo XIV shares diagnosis

Little-known lung cancer symptoms 'people miss' as Pope Leo XIV shares diagnosis The Pope had surgery to remove a lower lobe of his right lung after a concerning growth was identified during routine medical checks A medical bulletin issued by the Vatican this week confirmed that Pope Leo XIV had successfully undergone surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. The update followed the weekend announcement of his lung cancer diagnosis. Routine health checks had uncovered a suspicious growth, prompting the operation on October 13, 2026. Tests identified it as lung adenocarcinoma, a common type of non-small cell lung cancer. Medical teams at Rome's Gemelli Hospital took approximately 90 minutes to complete the procedure. The 71-year-old pontiff is now expected to remain in hospital for around a week while he recovers. As the lesion was caught early and had not spread, oncologists note that surgical intervention at this stage offers a positive prognosis. Further analysis of the removed lymph nodes will determine whether any additional follow-up treatments, such as targeted therapy or chemotherapy, will be required. In light of the Pope's health news, we're taking a fresh look at advice from Doctor Amir Khan on the key lung cancer symptoms to be aware of. The doctor, who is a familiar face on ITV daytime shows This Morning and Lorraine, shared five lesser-known symptoms of the disease on his Instagram account that everyone should know. Dr Khan stated in the video: "When it comes to lung cancer, many of us know the more common ways it might present, particular in those who smoke, such as a cough that's been present for three weeks or more, or coughing up blood. "But here are five ways you may not know about and should get checked by a clinician." 1. Unexplained chest or shoulder pain The first symptom the doctor emphasised was unexplained chest or shoulder pain. "If it's not your heart or a pulled muscle, get unexplained chest, shoulder or upper back pain checked out," said the expert. 2. A new, persistent and unexplained hoarse voice "Sometimes you can get a tumour in the top of you lung which sits on a nerve that goes to your voice box and that can change your voice, so get this checked," advised the medic. 3. Unexplained weight loss Dr Khan highlighted this symptom is especially important to investigate in those who smoke. 4. Swollen lymph glands in the neck or clavicle area The doctor stressed that it's particularly vital to get this issue examined if they've been present for three weeks. 5. Unexplained shortness of breath Dr Khan recommended that if routine activities are making you breathless when they normally wouldn't, the situation requires further examination. He concluded: "Remember, it's probably not cancer, but it's best to get these things checked out early." What are more common signs of lung cancer? In its early stages, lung cancer frequently presents no obvious symptoms whatsoever, which is precisely why early detection — such as through routine scans — is so crucial. When symptoms do begin to appear, you should look out for: - Persistent or changing cough - Coughing up blood - Recurrent infections - Persistent fatigue How many people in UK suffer from lung cancer every year? Around 50,200 people are diagnosed with lung cancer every year in the UK. This makes it the UK's third most common type of cancer, accounting for nearly 140 new cases every single day. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the UK, claiming around 32,800 lives each year (roughly 90 people per day). It primarily affects older adults, with nearly half (46%) of all new cases diagnosed in people aged 75 and over. It is relatively rare in individuals under 40. Approximately 79% of lung cancer cases are preventable. While tobacco smoking is the primary cause (linked to over 70% of cases), around 6,000 people who have never smoked die from the disease in the UK annually. It's always advisable to consult your GP if you have any concerns about your health. Ensure our latest DWP headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as Preferred Source in your Google search settings.