Pope Leo XIV Cleared for Latin America Trip After Lung Cancer Surgery
The Vatican confirmed Pope Leo XIV will proceed with his Nov. 6-17 trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru following a post-surgery assessment.
Pope Leo XIV has been cleared by Vatican doctors to undertake his planned Nov. 6-17 trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, three weeks after undergoing surgery for lung cancer. The Vatican confirmed Monday that the pope's recovery is progressing favorably and there are no medical reasons preventing him from traveling.
Surgeons removed a lobe containing a nodule diagnosed as malignant on Oct. 13, marking the first significant health issue of Leo XIV's 17-month pontificate. The surgery confirmed a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer.
Since returning to the Vatican, the pope has gradually resumed his duties while incorporating periods of rest. His physician, Luigi Carbone, stated that the trip, which involves numerous flights and travel to high altitudes, poses no medical obstacles.
Pope Leo XIV expressed gratitude for the support he received during his recovery and anticipation for returning to a continent where he spent significant periods of his life. "I am looking forward to returning to the continent where I’ve experienced so many moments of my life," he said Monday. "May this journey be an occasion for us to open our hearts to one another, strengthen our communion as brothers and sisters, and renew our commitment to proclaiming the Gospel with joy."
The Vatican indicated that the visit aims to strengthen ties with local churches, encourage the faithful, and promote messages of faith, hope, and peace in the three South American nations.