USA: Pope Francis’ health has taken a significant turn for the worse over the past 24 hours, according to an official Vatican statement. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalized for over a week due to breathing difficulties, is now in a critical condition, requiring close medical observation. Reports indicate that he has experienced a prolonged respiratory crisis similar to asthma, necessitating both oxygen support and blood transfusions. Despite remaining alert and spending the day seated in a chair, his overall condition has declined compared to the previous day.
Doctors treating Pope Francis have revealed that he suffered from a severe breathing crisis, prompting the need for high-flow oxygen administration. The Vatican disclosed that his low platelet count, associated with anemia, required immediate blood transfusions. His prognosis remains uncertain, marking the first time Vatican officials have explicitly described his health as “critical.” While his medical team continues to monitor him closely, the worsening condition has led to growing concerns regarding his ability to fulfill his papal duties in the long term.
The pope’s hospitalization follows a diagnosis of pneumonia and a complex lung infection, which Vatican doctors have attributed to multiple microorganisms. Such infections can cause severe inflammation and scarring in both lungs, making breathing increasingly difficult. Professor Sergio Alfieri, who leads the pope’s medical team, previously noted that while there had been a slight improvement in his condition, the overall situation remains serious due to the pope’s advanced age and existing health complications. Given his fragile state, Francis has been unable to conduct public engagements, including the Angelus prayer, for the second consecutive week.
Since assuming the papacy in 2013, Pope Francis has faced multiple health challenges, including colon surgery, a hernia operation, and chronic hip and knee pain, which has required him to use a wheelchair regularly. His latest health scare has ignited speculation regarding the future of his leadership and potential successors. Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin acknowledged the speculation but dismissed it as premature. However, with Francis previously maintaining an intense work schedule—including a grueling 12-day tour of the Asia-Pacific in September—concerns are mounting over whether he will be able to sustain his demanding role as the leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.
