Pope Francis was admitted to a hospital in Rome on Friday for medical tests and treatment related to bronchitis, according to the Vatican. The 88-year-old pontiff has faced ongoing health challenges in recent years.
After experiencing shortness of breath and delegating his speeches to aides, Francis was admitted to Gemelli Hospital following his morning meetings. The Vatican stated that he is undergoing essential diagnostic tests and receiving treatment for his condition in a hospital setting.
The pope, who had part of a lung removed in his youth, has been struggling with breathing difficulties for over a week. During his weekly audience on Wednesday, he acknowledged his condition, stating, “I cannot yet read my speeches,” but added with a smile, “I hope that next time I can.”
Francis previously spent three nights in the hospital in March 2023 due to bronchitis, which was successfully treated with antibiotics. He also canceled a scheduled visit to Dubai for the United Nations COP28 climate conference in December due to a similar issue.
Pushing Through Health Struggles
Despite his health challenges, Francis maintains a demanding schedule. He has dealt with various medical issues, including an inflamed colon and hernia surgery. Since 2022, he has relied on a wheelchair due to knee pain, occasionally using a cane.
In recent months, he has suffered a few falls, including one in January that left him with a bruised forearm and another in December that resulted in a visible bruise on his jaw after falling from bed.
Even with these setbacks, the pope remains active. In September, he embarked on a four-country trip, his longest yet in terms of distance and duration. Unlike his predecessor, Benedict XVI, who stepped down due to health concerns, Francis has repeatedly stated that he has no immediate plans to resign.
In a memoir published last year, he reaffirmed that he currently sees no reason to step down, stating that resignation would only be an option in the event of a severe physical limitation.
