Pope Leo XIV’s cancer diagnosis raises questions about his next steps

Pope Leo XIV’s cancer diagnosis has prompted questions among Catholics about his health, future schedule and pace of leadership in the Church.

The 71-year-old was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma on Tuesday after a 90-minute operation to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. He had announced on Sunday that doctors had found a nodule.

The news came as a shock to many, as there had been few indications of an immediate threat to the pontiff’s health. Leo, an Augustinian, is known to value healthy habits and fitness, including playing tennis weekly.

With his prognosis and any further treatment still unclear, questions remain about how the surgery will affect his daily routine and for how long. Air travel soon after lung surgery can carry risks, while some destinations on his planned November trip to South America are at high altitude. The trip, which includes Peru—where Leo lived for more than 20 years—could therefore be in doubt.

The diagnosis has also raised questions about whether Leo will alter the pace at which he pursues changes he considers necessary in the Church. His papacy has so far been comparatively measured, with a focus on stability.

Leo has emerged as a prominent moral voice internationally, speaking against war, supporting the dignity of migrants and warning about the risks of artificial intelligence. His approach has also drawn support from both progressive and traditionalist Catholics, helping bring together factions in a Church that has appeared divided.

Any major shift in his approach remains uncertain. Dramatic moves on doctrine, for example, would appear at odds with the thoughtful and deliberate style he has shown since becoming pope.