The Vatican said Wednesday that Pope Leo XIV is cancer-free, a week after doctors removed the lower part of his right lung. Officials said the pontiff needs no further treatment.
Churchgoers outside Ermita De La Caridad in Miami celebrated the news. Bertha and Martha, who attended the church, called the update a miracle. Gustavo Cabrera said he hoped the pope would get well.
Doctors said the cancer was localized and had not spread. Professor Stefano Margaritora said the pope was in entirely satisfactory clinical condition when he was discharged, with completely normal blood tests and sound heart function.
The pope was diagnosed with pulmonary adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer, after a routine abdominal exam found a nodule in his lung. He walked out on his own Saturday, four days after surgery, to give an update on his health.
On Wednesday he rode the Popemobile around St. Peter’s Square, waving and blessing babies while tourists lined up to greet him. He thanked the crowd for its prayers during his hospital stay.
Pope Leo said he will gradually resume his duties as leader of the world’s 1.5 billion Catholics. He is scheduled to visit Latin America in November.
