Papal Health
What has Pope Francis been diagnosed with, and what does the Vatican's statement reveal about his condition?
According to the Vatican's statement, Pope Francis has been diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia (pneumonia affecting both lungs) following a CT scan of his chest performed in the afternoon. The diagnosis came after he had already spent four nights in the hospital being treated for a respiratory illness. Despite this serious condition, the Vatican reports that the Pope remains in good spirits, although the situation is concerning. This development represents a significant health challenge for the pontiff, who has been dealing with ongoing respiratory issues that have now progressed to affect both of his lungs.
Watch clip answer (00:27m)
ABC News
00:00 - 00:28
What are the current health challenges facing Pope Francis?
Pope Francis has been diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia, a particularly concerning condition given that part of his lung was removed when he was younger. His health has deteriorated since 2023, with increased weight gain and mobility issues that have confined him to a wheelchair much of the time due to sciatica. These mobility limitations have contributed to his weight gain, creating a cycle of health complications that require additional medications and treatment. The Pope's current condition represents a significant change from his previous health status, raising concerns about his overall wellbeing and ability to fulfill his duties.
Watch clip answer (00:23m)ABC News
01:49 - 02:12
What is the current health condition of Pope Francis and why is it concerning?
Pope Francis, 88, is currently hospitalized with what Vatican officials describe as a 'complex clinical picture' involving multiple pathogens in his lungs. This respiratory infection is particularly concerning due to his advanced age, as medical experts note that whenever an 88-year-old man is hospitalized with a lung infection, it represents a serious cause for concern. The complexity of his condition is compounded by the presence of multiple pathogens rather than just one, making treatment more challenging. As a result, the Pope is missing important scheduled engagements, including a jubilee event with deacons and a mass that will now be conducted by an archbishop instead.
Watch clip answer (00:43m)
CBS News
01:26 - 02:10
Why is Pope Francis canceling his scheduled engagements this weekend?
Pope Francis is canceling his scheduled weekend engagements because he is currently hospitalized in Rome with a complex respiratory infection. According to the Vatican announcement, the 88-year-old pontiff remains under medical care for this serious condition. While the Vatican reported he had a good night and enjoyed breakfast (indicating he is not on a respirator), his situation remains concerning as he is dealing with multiple pathogens affecting his lungs. The Pope has a history of respiratory issues, including previous episodes of bronchitis and pneumonia, making this current health challenge particularly significant.
Watch clip answer (00:12m)CBS News
00:00 - 00:13
What event has Pope Francis canceled due to his health condition?
Pope Francis has canceled his participation in a Sunday mass due to his hospitalization for a complex respiratory infection. The 88-year-old pontiff was scheduled to preside over this important service, but it will now be led by an archbishop instead. This cancellation is part of several missed engagements this weekend, including a jubilee mass. The Pope's health situation is considered serious, particularly given his history of respiratory issues including past pneumonia. Despite reports of him having a tranquil night and taking some meals, his medical condition remains concerning enough to prevent his participation in these significant Vatican events.
Watch clip answer (00:07m)CBS News
02:31 - 02:38
What events is Pope Francis missing due to his hospitalization?
Pope Francis is missing several important scheduled events due to his hospitalization for a complex respiratory infection. A Saturday event with deacons for the jubilee year has been canceled entirely. Additionally, the Pope was supposed to preside at a mass on Sunday, which will now be led by an archbishop instead of the 88-year-old Papal leader. These cancellations highlight the severity of Pope Francis's health condition, as he remains hospitalized in Rome with respiratory issues involving multiple pathogens.
Watch clip answer (00:12m)
CBS News
02:26 - 02:38