Pope Leo XIV will not need any further treatment for lung cancer, as doctors confirmed the disease had not spread following his recent surgery. The Vatican released a statement from the pontiff's medical team on Wednesday, indicating that a subsequent oncological evaluation has determined no additional therapy is required.

The 71-year-old leader of the Catholic Church underwent surgery on October 13 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. He was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer. Pope Leo was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Polyclinic on Saturday, just four days after the operation, with the Vatican stating he would gradually resume his duties.

Doctors Stefano Margaritora, the pope's lead surgeon, and Luigi Carbone, his personal physician, confirmed the positive prognosis. "A subsequent oncological evaluation has confirmed that no further therapy is required," their statement read. This news follows Pope Leo's return to St Peter's Square on Wednesday for his weekly audience with pilgrims, his first public appearance since the surgery.

Additional cancer treatment is typically recommended when follow-up tests indicate the cancer has spread, perhaps to lymph nodes, or if signs suggest aggressive behavior. However, surgery can be sufficient when tumors are detected at a very early stage. In Pope Leo's case, the nodule was discovered incidentally during an unrelated examination, and he had not experienced any symptoms, according to Margarito, chief thoracic surgeon at Gemelli hospital.

Despite his recent surgery, Pope Leo continued to engage in official business while hospitalized, including a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He has made two public appearances at the Vatican since his operation: the traditional Sunday blessing and Wednesday's general audience, where he greeted attendees from around the world.

"Thank you! Thank you for the support of your prayers," Pope Leo exclaimed to the audience, acknowledging the well-wishes he received. His recovery appears to be progressing well, with no indications that his upcoming international travel plans will be affected.

Sources close to the pontiff's medical team have indicated that Pope Leo remains committed to his scheduled trip from November 6-17, which includes visits to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. His lead surgeon stated there is "no clinical reason" to prevent the pope from undertaking this journey, which is a significant part of his pastoral duties.

The successful outcome and swift return to public life suggest a positive outlook for the pontiff's health. Further updates on his condition and public engagements are expected as he continues his gradual resumption of activities.