Pope Francis has been hospitalized in Rome for ongoing bronchitis treatment, the Vatican revealed on Friday. The 88-year-old pontiff, experiencing breathlessness, entered the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli Hospital following his morning meetings, according to a Vatican statement. He was initially diagnosed with bronchitis last Thursday.
This admission follows Pope Francis’ recent health challenges, including having a portion of a lung removed during his youth and recurrent acute bronchitis, especially in winter. His health issues have been exacerbated by reduced mobility in recent years due to knee and back pain, often necessitating the use of a cane or wheelchair. In past years, he underwent surgery for diverticulitis in 2021 and hernia repair in 2023.
Despite these health concerns, the Pope has maintained a busy schedule, continuing activities at Casa Santa Marta.
Pope Francis has led the 1.4 billion-member Catholic Church since 2013.
In recent statements, Pope Francis condemned the U.S. mass deportation of migrants, and called for peace in Ukraine.