Pope Francis Hospitalized for Ongoing Bronchitis Treatment

Pope Francis is to be hospitalized for treatment of bronchitis, revealing ongoing health concerns that have impacted his recent public engagements.

Pope Francis, 88, will be admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome for treatment and diagnostic tests related to his ongoing bronchitis, as announced by the Vatican. The pontiff has been experiencing symptoms for several days, prompting him to delegate portions of his speeches to aides during recent public events.

The announcement follows a pattern of health issues for the Pope, who had to pause his activities last week to allow time for recovery. During a speech on Wednesday, Francis requested a priest to read part of his address due to difficulties stemming from the condition, indicating his struggles with bronchitis that has repeatedly affected his engagements.

The Vatican's brief statement highlighted the necessity of further medical evaluation: “This morning, after his audiences, Pope Francis will be admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic for necessary diagnostic tests and to continue hospital treatment for his ongoing bronchitis.” The Pope had also relied on aides to read for him at a mass service on Sunday and during a general audience the previous week.

Earlier this year, the Pope was treated for the same ailment, spending three nights in the hospital in March after similar health-related issues. In December, he had to cancel his attendance at the COP28 climate summit in the United Arab Emirates due to bronchitis.

Pope Francis has a long medical history, including having part of a lung removed at the age of 21, and has faced various health challenges during his nearly 12-year tenure as head of the Roman Catholic Church. His conditions have raised concerns about how they may impact his ability to fulfill his duties as Pope.