Pope Leo XIV Diagnosed with Lung Cancer

Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the Vatican announced Tuesday, following thoracic surgery during which surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung. The diagnosis was suspected based on pre-operative testing, according to the Holy See Press Office.

The Pope does not smoke and has no known history of smoking. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that 80% of lung cancer deaths are caused by smoking, lung adenocarcinoma is the most common type of lung cancer and is also the most common type among non-smokers, representing about 40% of all lung cancers in the U.S.

Dr. Lary Robinson, an oncologist at Moffitt Cancer Center, expressed that the Pope's lung nodule was "felt to be malignant." He noted that while most lung cancers occur in smokers, lung cancer also affects never-smokers, with an estimated 10% of male patients and 25% of female patients. Robinson added that the surgery suggests the cancer was likely localized, and if it is stage 1, the prognosis is generally favorable.

"Size matters in lung nodules and lung cancer – the larger the cancer, the worse outlook it is, because it's more likely to be advanced and have spread," Robinson stated. Pathology results will determine if the Pope has stage 1 cancer and if any additional treatment is necessary.

Risk Factors for Never-Smokers

Beyond smoking, other factors can contribute to lung cancer risk, including family history and genetic predisposition. Research has identified rare genetic mutations, such as in the EGFR T790M gene, that can significantly increase lung cancer risk for individuals who have never smoked. Other risk factors include exposure to environmental toxins like diesel exhaust and radon, as well as smoking of pipes, cigars, and heavy marijuana use. Robinson observed that over half of never-smokers diagnosed with lung cancer present with stage 4 disease.

Symptoms and Screening

Early-stage lung cancer often presents with no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they commonly include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood. Unexplained weight loss and neurological symptoms, such as persistent headaches, can also be indicators. Routine CT screening is generally recommended for individuals aged 50 and above with a history of smoking, but Robinson noted that only about 15% of eligible individuals undergo screening. He expressed hope for future advancements in screening methods, such as blood tests, to improve detection rates.