Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, has faced several health challenges in recent years, reflecting both his advancing age and a lifetime of physical hardships. Now in his late eighties, the Pope has shown resilience in the face of numerous medical concerns, yet his recent illnesses have raised growing concerns about his ability to continue leading the Church.
From an early age, Francis—born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina—struggled with respiratory issues. As a teenager, he underwent surgery to remove part of his right lung due to a severe infection, a condition that has made him more vulnerable to respiratory ailments throughout his life. Despite this, he maintained an active and demanding lifestyle, eventually becoming the leader of the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics.
In recent years, his health has increasingly been in the spotlight. In 2021, he underwent colon surgery for diverticulitis, a condition that caused inflammation in his digestive tract. A year later, persistent knee pain led to limited mobility, often requiring him to use a wheelchair or cane. Despite these physical struggles, Pope Francis remained dedicated to his papal duties, continuing his travels, speeches, and engagements with the faithful worldwide.
However, the Pope’s most concerning health struggles have been respiratory-related. In 2023, he was hospitalized with a lung infection that required urgent medical care. More recently, in early 2025, he was admitted to a hospital in Rome due to a severe respiratory crisis that developed into pneumonia. Doctors placed him on high-flow oxygen therapy and administered blood transfusions due to additional complications, including a dangerously low platelet count. The Vatican later confirmed that his condition had become critical, prompting speculation about his future as head of the Church.
Despite his ailments, Pope Francis has remained resolute in his mission. Even during hospital stays, he has continued to communicate with Vatican officials, making decisions about Church affairs and receiving visitors. However, his declining health has intensified discussions about succession, with Vatican insiders quietly considering the possibility of a conclave should the Pope step down or pass away.
As the world watches and prays for his recovery, Pope Francis’ legacy remains one of compassion, reform, and a dedication to social justice. Whether or not he continues as the leader of the Church, his impact on Catholicism and global humanitarian efforts is undeniable.
