Pope in 'pretty good health' as he starts Latin America tour

Pope Leo XIV has told reporters travelling with him that he is in “pretty good health” as he begins a tour of Latin America.

The brief comment is his first statement about his condition since he underwent surgery for lung cancer. It provides a direct update from the pope while he travels, but no further medical details were included.

First comments since surgery

Leo XIV’s remarks came during the opening of his Latin America tour, making his health a notable part of his first comments to journalists accompanying him. His description of his condition was positive, though the statement did not specify the nature of the surgery, his treatment or his recovery timeline.

The update gives reporters and the public a current assessment from the pope himself. Beyond saying he is in “pretty good health,” no additional information about his medical condition was provided.

What the pope said

• Pope Leo XIV said he is in “pretty good health.”
• The comment was made to reporters travelling with him.
• It was his first comment on his condition since surgery for lung cancer.
• The remarks came as he started a Latin America tour.

The pope’s statement is the latest available information on his health as the tour begins.