Pope Leo Expected to Leave Hospital After Lung Cancer Surgery

Pope Leo, 71, is slated to leave the hospital on Saturday afternoon following successful surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, the Vatican said. Blood tests and chest imaging confirmed he is fit to return home. The pope will conduct prayers from his Vatican flat for pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, marking his first public appearance since admission. He was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer. The Vatican’s announcement comes as the pontiff’s health remains a focal point for the Catholic community worldwide.