Pope Francis’ Condition Worsens After Significant Setback

Pope Francis suffered two episodes of acute respiratory insufficiency on Monday, marking a significant decline in his condition amid his ongoing battle with pneumonia. The Holy See Press Office confirmed that the 88-year-old pontiff required urgent medical intervention, including two bronchoscopies to clear large mucus secretions from his lungs.

According to the Vatican’s statement, the pope remains under “guarded” prognosis, though he was reported to be alert and cooperative during the procedures. Doctors resumed non-invasive mechanical ventilation in the afternoon to support his breathing, as his condition remains precarious.

Pope Francis’ worsening condition follows a week of hospitalization due to severe pneumonia. While initial reports suggested he was responding to treatment, the recent respiratory crises indicate ongoing complications. His blood tests have not shown signs of infection, ruling out leukocytosis, but medical experts warn that his fragile respiratory system continues to struggle with mucus accumulation.

“Today, the Holy Father suffered two episodes of acute respiratory insufficiency, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm,” the Vatican said in a statement on Monday.

Rome Italy 03 24 2024: Pope Francis Bergoglio. Argentine Pope of the Catholic Church in the Vatican. International trips to Papua New Guinea, Singapore Luxembourg Belgium with Brussels for a peace

“Two bronchoscopies were therefore performed, with the need to remove large secretions. In the afternoon, non-invasive mechanical ventilation was resumed. The Holy Father remained alert, oriented and cooperative at all times.”

“The prognosis remains guarded,” the statement finished.

The pope was first admitted to a Roman clinic on February 14 after suffering from breathing difficulties. Doctors soon diagnosed pneumonia, revealing an infection in both lungs. Francis had also been dealing with anemia, requiring blood transfusions over the past week.

Last Saturday, the Vatican disclosed that the pope experienced an “asthmatic respiratory crisis of prolonged magnitude,” necessitating high-flow oxygen therapy. Although he remained alert and able to sit in an armchair, reports indicated he was in more pain than the previous day.

His hospitalization has prevented him from delivering the weekly Angelus prayer, marking only the third time in his 12-year papacy that he has missed the event.

Rome, Italy 06.01.2025 : Pope Francis Bergoglio speaks during the celebration of the Epiphany of the Lord Holy Mass on Altar of the Confession, St. Peter’s Basilica

Francis’ vulnerability to respiratory infections dates back to his youth when he underwent surgery to remove one of his lungs due to a severe bout of pneumonia. His medical history has made him particularly susceptible to pulmonary complications.

The pope was also hospitalized for bronchitis in 2023, and more recently, he suffered two falls that required him to wear a sling for his arm. His declining mobility has further raised concerns about his long-term health.

While Francis has remained stable under treatment, Vatican doctors acknowledge that the greatest threat to his health remains the possibility of sepsis—a life-threatening bloodstream infection that can stem from pneumonia.

As the Vatican monitors the pope’s condition, concerns continue to grow over his ability to recover fully. While his doctors remain hopeful, they acknowledge the severity of his respiratory struggles. With the risk of further complications looming, the Catholic Church is bracing for uncertain days ahead.