Pope Leo XIV Reports Good Health Ahead of Latin America Tour

Pope Leo XIV informed journalists accompanying him that he is 'in pretty good health,' marking his first public comments on his condition following lung cancer surgery.

The Pope has arrived in Uruguay, the first destination of a 12-day tour that began just three weeks after his operation.

The pontiff, aged 71, expressed 'very happy' feelings about the trip, which faced uncertainty last month when a tumor was discovered during a routine scan.

The tour includes visits to Argentina and Peru, with the latter described by the Vatican as a 'homecoming' due to the Pope's past missionary and bishop work there.

During a flight to Uruguay, the Pope stated he had no doubts about proceeding with the trip, crediting the medical staff for his recovery.

Last month's surgery to remove the tumor was successful, and doctors confirmed the cancer has not spread.

Upon arriving in Montevideo, the Pope was greeted by crowds along the seafront, who cheered as his Popemobile passed through.

In his first speech of the tour, the Pope highlighted the importance of universal healthcare, noting the care he received made him think of those without access to timely diagnosis or treatment.