Pope Leo XIV to proceed with South America visit following lung surgery

Pope Leo XIV will proceed with his scheduled visit to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6 to 17 after the Vatican confirmed that his recovery from lung surgery is progressing well.

According to the Vatican, recent medical examinations found no health-related reasons that would prevent the 71-year-old pontiff from undertaking the trip.

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Leo underwent surgery on October 13, during which doctors removed the lower lobe of his right lung after diagnosing him with lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer.

The 10-city tour is expected to cover approximately 31,000 kilometers, with the Pope scheduled to deliver 36 speeches.

Leo previously spent decades as a missionary in Peru before his predecessor, Pope Francis, called him back to Rome in 2023.

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The Vatican said the pontiff continues to adjust his daily schedule in consultation with his doctors to support his recovery while carrying out his responsibilities as head of the Catholic Church.

(Photo Courtesy: AP Photo)