VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV has been cleared by his medical team to commence his scheduled November 6-17 visit to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, following successful treatment for lung cancer. The Vatican confirmed this decision on Monday, noting that three weeks after undergoing surgery to remove a malignant lobe, the Pope’s recovery remains on track with positive medical evaluations.
The Vatican Press Office affirmed that Pope Leo will adhere to his full itinerary without modifications, which includes 12 flights and two helicopter transfers to high-altitude destinations. The decision follows a comprehensive post-operative assessment that found no medical obstacles to international travel.
Surgery performed on October 13 marked the first significant health challenge during Pope Leo’s 17-month papacy. The procedure successfully removed a lobe containing an adenocarcinoma nodule, the most common form of lung cancer. Medical professionals emphasized that the operation concluded with favorable outcomes and complete tumor removal.
Upon his return to Vatican City, the Pope has progressively resumed public engagements while maintaining a carefully calibrated schedule focused on recovery and rest periods. His physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, stated that the trip’s demands are medically manageable given the Pope’s current condition.
Expressing his gratitude for global support during recovery, Pope Leo reflected on the significance of the journey: “I look forward to returning to the continent where I have experienced many meaningful moments. May this pilgrimage open our hearts to one another, strengthen our bonds as siblings in faith, and renew our commitment to sharing the Gospel with joy.”
The Vatican emphasized that the visit will serve as an opportunity to deepen connections with local Christian communities, encourage the faithful, and convey messages of faith, hope, and peace across the three South American nations.
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