Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer following successful surgery to remove a lower lobe of his right lung, the Vatican announced in a medical bulletin.

The 71-year-old pontiff underwent a 90-minute operation on Tuesday at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. Post-surgery, he was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma. The Vatican stated the operation was successful and without complications, with the Pope waking normally and returning to his room after a brief observation period.

The Vatican said the lump was discovered during routine checks. The entire lower lobe of the Pope's right lung was removed to ensure the procedure was radical. Further tests are underway to determine if the cancer has spread, according to a Vatican source speaking to Agence France-Presse.

The Pope is expected to remain in hospital for approximately one week. His schedule has been cleared until October 20 to allow for recovery. The pontiff himself announced the news of his impending operation on Sunday from St. Peter's Square after delivering the Angelus blessing, describing the growth as contained and found at an early stage.

Gemelli's thoracic surgery team performed the procedure. The Vatican clarified that while nodules are common and not always cancerous, pre-operative tests had confirmed the presence of pulmonary adenocarcinoma. The pontiff, generally considered fit, had reportedly experienced no symptoms of illness.

Cardinal Kikuchi Tarcisio Isao of Tokyo, who met with Pope Leo on Monday, stated the pontiff felt physically well. The Pope reportedly opted for the surgery as soon as possible to ensure he could proceed with a planned trip to Latin America in early November, a significant visit including Peru where he previously served as a missionary and bishop.

Despite assurances of the Pope's condition and the early detection of the cancer, the news has caused concern among Catholics globally. Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Parolin expressed his apprehension, noting the unexpected nature of the diagnosis.

The Vatican has not provided a timeline for the Pope's return to public duties beyond his hospital stay and scheduled recovery period. The focus remains on his recuperation and the results of ongoing tests regarding the extent of the cancer.