Life after lung cancer: What happens next?

News that Pope Leo XIV underwent surgery for lung cancer has led to an outpouring of prayers and well wishes. But for many people, the news is also raising questions: What does life look like after treatment? What happens when someone loses part of their lung?

While every situation is unique, advances in screening, surgery and treatment for lung cancer are helping more people live longer and fuller lives after a diagnosis.

“A lung cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but treatment and recovery look very different today than they did even a decade ago,” says Dr. Maria Georgen, an oncologist and hematologist at Aurora Health Care. “Many people are able to return to activities they enjoy and maintain a good quality of life after treatment.”

What recovery after lung cancer can look like

For some people, treatment may involve surgery, such as removing a portion of the lung. Others may need chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy or a combination of treatments.

No matter the approach, recovery rarely follows a straight line.

“Recovery is different for every person, but we often see patients make steady progress over time,” Dr. Georgen says. “The focus is not only on treating the cancer, but also on helping people regain their strength and return to the things that matter most to them.”

Fatigue is common, especially during the weeks and months after treatment. Some people notice they become short of breath more easily or need more time to rebuild their stamina.

Still, many cancer survivors are surprised by what they’re able to do as they recover.

“Life may not look exactly the same as it did before cancer, and that’s okay,” Dr. Georgen says. “Many patients adapt and continue doing the things that are important to them.”

Why early detection and screening matter

One reason Pope Leo XIV’s diagnosis has drawn attention is that his cancer was found at an early stage. This gave doctors the opportunity to begin treatment sooner. Finding lung cancer early can mean more treatment options and a better chance of successful treatment.

Although the pope does not have a known history of smoking, his diagnosis is an important reminder that anyone can develop lung cancer. Smoking remains the leading cause, but other risk factors can include secondhand smoke, radon, air pollution, asbestos and genetic changes.

People at higher risk for lung cancer, including many current and former smokers, may qualify for screening with a low-dose CT scan. Because lung cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms in its earliest stages, talking with your doctor about your risk factors and whether screening is right for you could help detect the disease sooner.

“The earlier we can find lung cancer, the more opportunities we often have to treat it successfully,” Dr. Georgen says. “That’s one reason screening and awareness are so important.”

For many survivors, life after lung cancer isn’t about returning to exactly who they were before. It’s about moving forward, one step at a time, and continuing to do the things that matter most.

Want to learn more about your risk for lung cancer? Take a free online quiz.