Pope Francis has been hospitalized once again, marking the fourth time since his election in 2013. The 88-year-old pontiff was diagnosed with bronchitis last week and has a history of health issues, including having part of one lung removed in his youth. This recurring condition tends to spike during the winter months.
Over the years, Pope Francis has faced several significant health challenges. He had a major surgery in 2021 that involved the removal of a substantial section of his large intestine. Due to strained knee ligaments, he now relies on a wheelchair, cane, or walker for mobility.
To manage his healthcare, Francis is supported by his personal physician, Dr. Roberto Bernabei, an expert in internal medicine and geriatrics. Additionally, he has a personal nurse, Massimiliano Strappetti, who has played a vital role in his healthcare journey, notably assisting him during his 2021 surgery.
A brief overview of the pope’s health history includes:
– In 1957, while still in his early 20s in Argentina, he survived a serious respiratory infection that required the removal of part of his lung. A quick-thinking nurse, who decided to increase his medication, was instrumental in saving his life.
– In July 2021, he spent ten days in the Gemelli Hospital in Rome for a condition related to his large intestine, resulting in the removal of 13 inches of his colon. After his recovery, he expressed a desire for normalcy in his diet but noted his sensitivity to general anesthesia.
– In January 2023, Francis disclosed that he had experienced a recurrence of diverticulosis, a condition affecting his intestinal wall, although it was being managed.
– Later in March 2023, he was hospitalized again for three days due to acute bronchitis after experiencing chest pain and breathing difficulties.
– Following additional medical evaluations in June, he underwent surgery for an abdominal hernia and scar tissue removal, which was a result of both recent and past surgeries.
As of February 2025, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis returned to the hospital for bronchitis treatment and further diagnostic assessments.
Despite the challenges he’s faced, Pope Francis continues to fulfill his role as the leader of the Catholic Church, supported by a dedicated healthcare team.
