Pope Leo to host general audience for first time since cancer surgery

Pope Leo to host general audience for first time since cancer surgery Leo has been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer - Bookmark - CommentsGo to comments Become an Independent member to bookmark this article Already a member? Log in Pope Leo is set to host a general audience with pilgrims at the Vatican on Wednesday, marking his first such gathering since undergoing surgery for lung cancer, the Vatican said. During the procedure on 13 October, surgeons removed the lower lobe of the 71-year-old pontiff's right lung, sparking questions over how the illness may affect his 17-month papacy. Speaking on Sunday in his first public appearance since the operation, Leo pledged that he would gradually resume his usual activities as the leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics. The pontiff remarked that his time in hospital "has made me feel especially close to those facing illness and infirmity." He assured the faithful he had ‘’truly felt your support,'' and offered “particular gratitude to the doctors, nurses and all the staff at Gemelli hospital'' who cared for him. Pausing briefly, the pope waved to the crowd below before stepping back inside his suite within the Apostolic Palace. The pope hosts a general audience with pilgrims on most Wednesdays of the year. It is held in St. Peter's Square when there is good weather and the pope often tours the crowds, usually in the tens of thousands, in an open-top popemobile. Leo has been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer. The diagnosis, for the youngest pope in decades, who was elected only in May 2025, caused shock. The pope's doctors have said his surgery was completed successfully, without complications. They have not yet disclosed the size of the tumour or whether the disease had spread to nearby lymph nodes, key factors in determining prognosis. The Vatican has provided no indication of Leo's schedule beyond Wednesday. The pope is due to visit Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from November 6 to17, in one of the most intense trips arranged for a Catholic leader in decades, but it remains unclear if that trip will go forward. Leo's lead surgeon has said the pope could be fully recovered in time for the trip, but the Vatican's secretary of state has indicated the pope may need to adjust the pace of his schedule to aid in recovery. Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments