Pope Francis Battling Kidney Complications Amid Health Struggles

The 88-year-old leader of the Roman Catholic Church Pope Francis, remains in critical condition as he continues to battle serious health complications.

The Vatican has confirmed that the Pope is suffering from a complex lung infection and early signs of kidney failure, though his condition remains stable.

According to the latest updates, the Pope has not shown further respiratory distress since Saturday. Doctors at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he is receiving treatment, have placed him on high-flow oxygen therapy to support his breathing.

His health struggles began earlier this month when he experienced severe respiratory difficulties, resembling an asthma attack. Subsequent medical examinations revealed double pneumonia and a lung infection caused by multiple microorganisms. Blood tests also detected mild renal insufficiency, prompting doctors to monitor his kidney function closely.

Despite these challenges, Pope Francis remains in good spirits. On Sunday, although he was unable to deliver his usual weekly address, he sent a written message to the faithful, reassuring them of his resilience. “I am continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital with confidence, carrying on with the necessary treatment,” he said.

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Across the world, Catholic faithful, religious leaders, and well-wishers have been sending prayers and messages of support. Cardinal Timothy Dolan, a senior figure in the Catholic Church, acknowledged the gravity of the situation, saying that while the Pope’s condition is fragile, the Church remains united in prayer for his recovery.

While speculation has arisen about the possibility of Pope Francis stepping down—following in the footsteps of his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI—the Vatican has not addressed any potential resignation. Instead, the focus remains on his medical care and recovery.

Doctors have expressed cautious optimism, stating that while his current treatment is yielding positive results, they remain vigilant against possible complications, including the risk of sepsis.