October 26, 2026 / 1:19 PM EDT / CBS News

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Only two weeks after undergoing surgery for lung cancer, Pope Leo XIV has been given the medical green light to embark on an ambitious 12-day tour of South America next month.

"Based on his current clinical status, as well as the instrumental and laboratory tests performed, there are no contraindications that would prevent him from undertaking his upcoming apostolic journey to Latin America as planned," the Vatican said in a statement on Monday. "The Pope is following medical recommendations with great care and diligence, and with a deep determination to continue serving the Church."

The trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru, set for Nov. 6 to 17, is particularly grueling.…