Local doctor explains what to know about Pope’s lung cancer

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a common type of lung cancer that can also develop in people who have never smoked.

Doctors removed the lower lobe of the pope’s right lung during surgery Tuesday at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. The Vatican said the operation was successful and there were no complications.

Novant Health officials say the cancer may be at an early stage, but its exact stage has not been confirmed publicly.

During the procedure, surgeons used a video-assisted technique to remove the affected portion of the lung. An examination of the tissue during surgery confirmed the cancer diagnosis, according to the Vatican.

Robert Cortina, a thoracic surgeon with Novant Health, says the need for additional treatment will depend on the cancer’s stage.

“Depending on the stage, so if it’s an early stage one, he does not need any adjuvant therapy, meaning chemotherapy or radiation, so in that case, then he’s going to get surveillance,” said Cortina.

Surveillance involves regular medical follow-ups and imaging to monitor for signs of cancer returning. Cortina says there is always a risk of recurrence, and only time will tell.