Pope Francis has been reported to be in "critical" condition as the Vatican reveals new developments related to his health. In a statement released on Sunday, officials acknowledged that the Pope is currently experiencing "initial, mild, renal insufficiency" suggesting a kidney problem, although they insist it is "currently under control."
The pontiff remains dependent on high-flow oxygen therapy and has recently undergone blood transfusions, with blood tests indicating that his thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by low platelet counts, is stable. Despite these medical issues, the Vatican noted that Pope Francis is "alert and well oriented," participating in Holy Mass with his caregivers the morning after.
Pope Francis was admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital on February 14, following several days of breathing difficulties. Initially treated for bronchitis, he was later diagnosed with pneumonia affecting both lungs. With a history of lung problems, including a partial lung removal and pleurisy from his youth, the 86-year-old pontiff remains particularly vulnerable to respiratory infections.
Despite his health struggles, the Pope took a moment to connect with the global Catholic community, urging prayers from his hospital room after missing the traditional Angelus prayer for two consecutive weeks.
As the Vatican refrains from giving an explicit prognosis due to the "complexity of the clinical picture," the faithful remain hopeful for the Pope's recovery, mindful of his previous hospitalizations over the past 12 years of his leadership as the first Jesuit and Latin American Pope.
