Pope Leo says he is “in fairly good shape” weeks after lung cancer surgery

Weeks after lung cancer surgery, Pope Leo XIV is back on the road, saying he is in “fairly good shape” as he begins a 12-day South America tour.

Pope Leo XIV has said he is in “fairly good shape” after lung cancer surgery last month, as he began a 12-day tour of South America with a visit to Uruguay, Vanguard reports.

Speaking to reporters on the papal plane on Friday, Leo said, “I had no doubt and was convinced that this trip had to go forward. And I am very happy to say praise the Lord and thanks to wonderful medical assistance, I’m here today, I think in fairly good shape.”

Leo, 71, had a cancerous tumour and part of his right lung removed in an operation at Rome’s Gemelli hospital on October 13. He was discharged on October 17 and is fit to travel, doctors quoted by the Vatican said.

Asked for advice for people facing a cancer diagnosis, he said: “Not to be afraid. Early detection is obviously the best way to go and so regular check-ups are a blessing. And take care of yourselves.”