Uncertainty Over Pope Leo's Health Revives Debate on Vatican Openness

Pope Leo, the head of the Catholic Church, announced his lung condition himself. According to The New York Times, that makes him more forthcoming than many of his predecessors, whose health the Vatican often kept private.

Some questions about his health remain unclear, however. As a result, observers are examining statements from the pope and the Vatican closely, looking for hidden meaning.

The episode has revived a familiar debate over how fully the Vatican informs the public about a pope's health. The source excerpt gives no further details on the diagnosis, treatment or outlook, so none are included here.