Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer (Image: Vatican Pool, Getty Images)
It was announced at the weekend that Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer, although the Vatican confirmed in a medical bulletin this week that he underwent successful surgery to remove a lower lobe of his right lung.
The Pope had the operation on October 13, 2026, to address lung cancer after a concerning growth was identified during routine medical checks. Laboratory examination confirmed the growth was lung adenocarcinoma, a prevalent type of non-small cell lung cancer.
Medical staff at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital required approximately 90 minutes to carry out the procedure. The 71-year-old pontiff is now anticipated to remain in hospital for roughly a week while recuperating.
Given that the lesion was detected early and remained localised, oncologists observe that early-stage surgical intervention offers a favourable prognosis.
Additional examination of extracted lymph nodes will establish whether any supplementary follow-up treatments (such as targeted therapy or chemotherapy) are necessary.
Dr Amir Khan shares five ‘uncommon’ symptoms of the disease (Image: Getty)
Following the Pope’s health announcement, we’re revisiting guidance from Doctor Amir Khan regarding the typical lung cancer symptoms to watch for.
The doctor, who regularly features on ITV daytime programmes This Morning and Lorraine, shared five unusual symptoms of the disease on his Instagram account that the public should recognise.
Dr Khan stated in the video: “When it comes to lung cancer, many of us know the more common ways it might present, particular in those who smoke, such as a cough that’s been present for three weeks or more, or coughing up blood.
“But here are five ways you may not know about and should get checked by a clinician.”
1. Unexplained chest or shoulder pain
The first symptom the doctor highlighted was unexplained chest or shoulder pain.
“If it’s not your heart or a pulled muscle, get unexplained chest, shoulder or upper back pain checked out,” said the expert.
Unexplained shortness of breath is one symptom worth checking out, according to the expert (Image: Organic Media via Getty Images)
2. A new, persistent and unexplained hoarse voice
“Sometimes you can get a tumour in the top of you lung which sits on a nerve that goes to your voice box and that can change your voice, so get this checked,” advised the medic.
3. Unexplained weight loss
Dr Khan noted this symptom is particularly crucial to investigate in those who smoke.
4. Swollen lymph glands in the neck or clavicle area
The doctor said that it’s even more vital to get this issue checked if they’ve been there for three weeks.
5. Unexplained shortness of breath
Dr Khan advised that if everyday activities are leaving you breathless when they ordinarily wouldn’t, the matter warrants further investigation.
He concluded: “Remember, it’s probably not cancer, but it’s best to get these things checked out early.”
What are common signs of lung cancer?
In its early stages, lung cancer often produces no noticeable symptoms at all, which is why early detection (such as during routine scans) is so important.
When symptoms do develop, you should look out for:
- Persistent or changing cough
- Coughing up blood
- Recurrent infections
- Persistent fatigue
It’s best to check with your GP if you’re worried about any health issues you’re having.
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