Pope Francis has been hospitalized for bronchitis, raising concerns over his health as he continues to fulfill his duties despite ongoing respiratory issues. The Vatican's announcement comes following a series of recent public engagements, indicative of the pontiff's determination to remain active in his role.
Pope Francis Hospitalized Again for Bronchitis Amid Health Concerns
Pope Francis Hospitalized Again for Bronchitis Amid Health Concerns
The Vatican confirmed the admission of the 88-year-old pontiff to a Rome hospital for treatment and evaluation of bronchitis.
In a statement issued by the Vatican, Pope Francis was admitted to the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli hospital on Friday for diagnostic tests and treatment of bronchitis. This development comes amid ongoing concerns about the health of the 88-year-old pontiff, who has been facing various health challenges over the years. It was noted that earlier that day, Francis had conducted his audiences as planned, including meetings with Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico and CNN's CEO Mark Thompson.
Earlier this month, the Vatican had reported that the pope was experiencing bronchitis, leading to changes in his schedule. To accommodate his condition, he had been holding audiences at the Casa Santa Marta rather than the Apostolic Palace. In recent weeks, he has struggled with respiratory problems, prompting aides to deliver his homilies during various events.
Since the start of the 2025 Jubilee, the pope has maintained a busy timetable, attending numerous masses and welcoming pilgrims to the Vatican. His resilience is evident, though it comes after a history of significant health issues, including the surgical removal of part of a lung in his youth. Previously, Francis was hospitalized for bronchitis in 2023 and subsequently underwent surgery for an abdominal hernia. Moreover, he has had falls that resulted in bruises, including incidents in December and January.
During a recent general audience, the pope acknowledged his bronchitis and requested someone else to continue reading his prepared remarks. "With my bronchitis I can’t, I hope I will be able to next time," he shared with attendees.
As news of his hospitalization develops, observers are watching closely to gauge the implications it may have on the Vatican and his ability to lead the Catholic Church effectively.
Elisabetta Povoledo is a seasoned reporter based in Rome, focusing on topics related to Italy, the Vatican, and cultural issues in the region.
Earlier this month, the Vatican had reported that the pope was experiencing bronchitis, leading to changes in his schedule. To accommodate his condition, he had been holding audiences at the Casa Santa Marta rather than the Apostolic Palace. In recent weeks, he has struggled with respiratory problems, prompting aides to deliver his homilies during various events.
Since the start of the 2025 Jubilee, the pope has maintained a busy timetable, attending numerous masses and welcoming pilgrims to the Vatican. His resilience is evident, though it comes after a history of significant health issues, including the surgical removal of part of a lung in his youth. Previously, Francis was hospitalized for bronchitis in 2023 and subsequently underwent surgery for an abdominal hernia. Moreover, he has had falls that resulted in bruises, including incidents in December and January.
During a recent general audience, the pope acknowledged his bronchitis and requested someone else to continue reading his prepared remarks. "With my bronchitis I can’t, I hope I will be able to next time," he shared with attendees.
As news of his hospitalization develops, observers are watching closely to gauge the implications it may have on the Vatican and his ability to lead the Catholic Church effectively.
Elisabetta Povoledo is a seasoned reporter based in Rome, focusing on topics related to Italy, the Vatican, and cultural issues in the region.
