Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer. Here’s what to know about the first American pope.

• In May 2025, Pope Leo XIV was elected as the current pope.
• Hailing from Chicago, he has been outspoken about the impact of AI on society during his papacy.
• Pope Leo XIV was recently diagnosed with lung cancer after undergoing surgery.

Pope Leo XIV was diagnosed with lung cancer on October 13, 2026.

The pope underwent an operation to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, the Holy See press office said in October. It added that the surgery was successful with no complications.

The operation confirmed a previously suspected lung cancer diagnosis.

On Wednesday, the Holy See press office said the “night passed calmly” for the pope.