From Seattletimes · · 1m 20s
Pope Leo XIV Diagnosed With Lung Cancer
Pope Leo XIV has lung adenocarcinoma, a common lung cancer type with high survival rates when caught early.
In brief
Pope Leo XIV has lung adenocarcinoma, a common lung cancer type with high survival rates when caught early. Pope Leo XIV was diagnosed with early-stage lung adenocarcinoma, which has a high survival rate due to early detection. Originally reported by Seattletimes.
Quick answers
- What Is Lung Adenocarcinoma?
- Lung adenocarcinoma is the most common subtype of non-small cell lung cancer, which makes up the vast majority of global cases.
- What is the key takeaway from Pope Leo XIV Diagnosed With Lung Cancer?
- Pope Leo XIV was diagnosed with early-stage lung adenocarcinoma, which has a high survival rate due to early detection.
Pope Leo XIV's Diagnosis
Pope Leo XIV had the lower section of his right lung removed after doctors diagnosed him with lung adenocarcinoma.
What Is Lung Adenocarcinoma?
Lung adenocarcinoma is the most common subtype of non-small cell lung cancer, which makes up the vast majority of global cases.
Survival Rates
Early detection of lung adenocarcinoma can lead to high survival rates, as the pope’s tumor was caught early.
Causes of Lung Cancer
Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, but up to 1 in 5 cases occur in non-smokers, possibly due to random chance.
Early Detection Methods
Lung cancer can be found early through scans that spot nodules, like the one in the pope’s lung during another exam.
Treatment for Early Stage
Surgery removed the lower section of the pope’s right lung to ensure all cancer was eliminated.
Recovery Outlook
The pope is expected to recover quickly, walking the next day after surgery, which typically signals a faster recovery.
The bottom line
Pope Leo XIV was diagnosed with early-stage lung adenocarcinoma, which has a high survival rate due to early detection.

