Vatican Confirms Pope Leo's South America Trip After Checkup

Pope Leo XIV will go ahead with his Nov. 6-17 trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru. The Vatican said Monday that doctors found no medical obstacle.

• Oct. 13: surgeons removed a lung lobe containing a malignant nodule.
• Doctors confirmed adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer.
• 12 flights and two high-altitude helicopter rides are on the schedule.
• The Vatican announced no changes to the trip program.

Why it matters: The surgery was the first major health event of Leo's 17-month papacy. The trip will show how far his recovery has come.

• Physician Luigi Carbone says nothing medical prevents the journey.
• Leo has been easing back into work, with time set aside for rest.

How 16 sources split on this story

What’s next: Leo leaves Nov. 6 and is scheduled to return Nov. 17.

• The Vatican says the visit aims to strengthen ties with local churches.
• Will the schedule be adjusted during the trip if his recovery requires it?
• What further cancer treatment or monitoring, if any, does the pope face?