Pope Leo XIV's recovery progressing normally, says Vatican

The recovery of Pope Leo XIV is "progressing normally" based on test results, according to the Medical Bulletin posted by the Holy See Press Office.

"This morning, the Holy Father underwent the blood tests and chest X-ray scheduled after surgery. The results confirm that his postoperative recovery is progressing normally: the values are within the expected range for the type of operation performed," said Dr. Luigi Carbone and Professor Stefano Margaritora in a statement posted by Vatican News.

"The Holy Father has undergone respiratory physiotherapy and has begun walking around his room. He has resumed eating normally and had breakfast and lunch. His recovery is proceeding as expected."

Pope Leo was diagnosed with lung cancer after surgeons removed a part of his right lung on Tuesday, the Vatican said in a medical bulletin, marking a significant health setback for the 71-year-old pontiff.

The pope has lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of cancer, with tissue tests conducted during the operation confirming what doctors had suspected from preparatory examinations, the bulletin said.

An earlier update stated that the first night that Pope Leo XIV spent in the hospital following surgery was calm, the Holy See Press Office reported.

He was unable to preside over the mass marking the 10th anniversary of the apostolic exhortation Amoris Laetitia and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Dean of the College of Cardinals, celebrated in his behalf. — BAP, GMA News