Pope Leo XIV’s diagnosis of lung cancer has raised questions about whether he will be able to carry out his planned November trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru, as the Vatican assesses his recovery following surgery to remove a malignant tumor.
The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on October 13 after a lung nodule was detected during a routine checkup.
The Vatican confirmed that the procedure removed the lower lobe of his right lung and that an examination of the tissue confirmed a diagnosis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer.
The trip, scheduled for November 6-17, remains on the Vatican’s agenda, with no changes announced so far.
However, the diagnosis has introduced uncertainty over a demanding itinerary involving 12 days of activities, numerous flights and more than 40 meetings and speeches.
Surgery and recovery
Before the operation, Leo XIV described the nodule as being at an “early stage and well localized.” The Vatican said the surgery was performed as planned and that the cancer diagnosis was confirmed during the procedure.
The Holy See expects the pope to remain hospitalized for approximately one week. All his audiences have been suspended until October 20, and his recovery and subsequent medical assessments will help determine when he can resume public activities.
The diagnosis came as a surprise to many, as Leo XIV had appeared to be in good physical condition and maintained an active lifestyle, exercising regularly. His routine includes swimming, tennis and horseback riding at the papal residence in Castel Gandolfo.
The operation has also prompted questions about whether he might require further treatment or medical monitoring that could affect his international commitments.
What the diagnosis means for the Argentina visit
Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to visit Argentina from November 8 to 11, as part of a South American tour that also includes Uruguay and Peru.
So far, neither the Vatican nor the Argentine government has announced its cancellation.
Argentine officials said preparations would continue while they await further information about the pope’s recovery.
Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno said the administration was closely monitoring the pontiff’s health and that the final decision rested with the Vatican.
“We have to wait; obviously, the priority for us is the pope’s health,” Quirno said in an interview with Radio Rivadavia on Tuesday.
“In the event that it doesn’t happen due to this unforeseen circumstance… we will be ready to welcome him with open arms (in the future),” he added.
President Javier Milei also said Argentina was prepared to adjust the pope’s schedule if necessary.
“We pray for him so that he can come to Argentina. If the situation requires a change of date, we are available to make the necessary adjustments,” he told Radio Mitre.
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