Pope Francis' Health Declared 'Critical' Amid Kidney Complications

Pope Francis remains in a "critical" condition due to a kidney issue while combating pneumonia and bronchitis, with updates on his health prompt calls for global prayers.

Pope Francis remains in a "critical" condition as of Sunday, according to a statement from the Vatican, though he has not faced any recent respiratory crises. The Pontiff continues to receive high-flow oxygen therapy and is undergoing blood transfusions. Recent blood tests indicated he has "initial, mild, renal insufficiency," a kidney issue that is reportedly "currently under control." Notably, the Vatican mentioned that he remains "alert and well oriented."

The 86-year-old Pope was hospitalized on 14 February at Rome's Gemelli Hospital after suffering from respiratory difficulties. Initially diagnosed with bronchitis, he later developed pneumonia in both lungs. His thrombocytopenia, a condition involving a low platelet count, is also stable at this time.

During his hospitalization, the Pope participated in Holy Mass with his medical team, which reflects his ongoing engagement despite health challenges. However, the Vatican refrained from providing a prognosis due to the complexity of his medical condition.

This latest update follows previous announcements about the Pope's health, including a respiratory crisis that marked him as "critical.” Earlier, the Pope had called on Catholics worldwide to pray for him, as he was unable to deliver the traditional Angelus prayer for the second consecutive week.

Pope Francis, originally from Argentina, has a history of health issues that make him particularly susceptible to pneumonia, notably having contracted pleurisy in his youth, which led to a partial lung removal. His leadership of the Roman Catholic Church spans over 12 years, during which he has faced multiple hospitalizations, including treatment for bronchitis at the same facility in March 2023.

This ongoing health saga highlights the delicate balance Pope Francis maintains as he continues to lead the Catholic community during a difficult personal health journey. The Vatican's focus remains on his care while the global community is urged to keep the Pope in their prayers.