Pope Francis was hospitalized on Friday for treatment related to bronchitis, reigniting concerns regarding the health of the 88-year-old pontiff, according to a statement from the Vatican. Held at the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli in Rome, the pope underwent diagnostic tests and received care conducive to his condition.
The Vatican had previously announced Francis’s struggle with bronchitis earlier in February, configuring his schedule to accommodate his health. He had been meeting with audiences at the Casa Santa Marta, rather than the prestigious Apostolic Palace. Recent weeks saw the pope experiencing additional respiratory difficulties, prompting aides to read his homilies during public events in his place.
Despite these challenges, the pontiff remained active, participating in his schedule since the start of the 2025 Jubilee, a significant event in the Roman Catholic Church held every 25 years. His vibrant leadership was clear as he presided over audiences gathering in droves and officiated at outdoor Masses to accommodate large crowds.
This morning, just before being admitted to the hospital, Francis met with notable figures, including Robert Fico, the Slovakian prime minister, and Mark Thompson, CNN's CEO.
The pontiff's medical history raises further concerns; he underwent surgery to remove part of his lung when younger and has faced an array of health issues in recent years, often requiring mobility assistance like a wheelchair or cane. He had previously been hospitalized for bronchitis in 2023 and underwent abdominal surgery later that year for a hernia.
Francis has also faced physical misfortunes, having fallen in his suite multiple times recently, resulting in injuries. Just last week, during a general audience, he paused in his address, indicating his struggle with bronchitis. “With my bronchitis I can’t, I hope I will be able to next time,” he expressed, reflecting on his determination despite ongoing health battle.
Elisabetta Povoledo, an experienced reporter based in Rome, continues to cover significant cultural and religious narratives from the Vatican and across Italy, corroborating the pontiff's journey with compassion and awareness.
