Pope Francis, who served as the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on April 21, 2025, after suffering a stroke that resulted in a coma and ultimately, the collapse of his cardiovascular system. The Vatican attributed his death to underlying health conditions, including Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and bronchiectasis, a chronic lung issue that can increase susceptibility to infections.
Dr. Burton Dickey from MD Anderson Cancer Center explained how these conditions can contribute to serious health complications. Specifically, pneumonia can arise from bronchiectasis, itself intensifying risks for blood clots that lead to strokes. Pope Francis had previously dealt with pneumonia, spending several weeks in the hospital before his passing.
The Vatican's announcement noted that the devastating stroke led to "cardiocirculatory collapse," a critical state in which both the heart and lungs cease to function effectively. Dr. Michelle Kittleson, a cardiology professor at Cedars-Sinai, elaborated on how strokes can disrupt brain functions that regulate the heart, potentially resulting in systemic failure.
The news has reverberated worldwide, prompting gatherings of mourners, including emotional vigils in St. Peter’s Square as people pay their respects to the late pope and reflect on his impactful legacy.
