BY Ian Dunn | October 21 | 
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Vatican brands unfounded rumours Pope has brain tumour as ‘irresponsible’
The Vatican has denied a ‘seriously irresponsible’ rumour that Pope Francis has been diagnosed with a small but curable brain tumour.
The unattributed story was published last night on the Italian website Quotidiano Nazionale (above), reporting that the tumour was discovered ‘months ago’ after a shadow was seen on his brain but no surgery would be required.
The Vatican described the report as ‘unfounded’ and ‘seriously irresponsible.’
Vatican Spokesman Fr Federico Lombardi said the story was without foundation.
“The spread of the totally unfounded news of the health condition of the Holy Father on the part of an Italian news agency is seriously irresponsible and not worthy of attention,” he said. “Also, as all can see, the Pope continues to exercise his intense activity without interruption and in an absolutely normal way.”
Quotidiano insisted that its story was true, maintaining that the Pope had visited Professor Takanori Fukushima some months ago at the San Rossore clinic in the Barbaricina area of Pisa.
It quoted an unnamed employee at the clinic saying such a small tumour could be treated and did not need any kind of surgical intervention. Andrea Cangini, the website editor, said the denial was understandable and had been expected.
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