Pope Francis and Silvio Berlusconi, two of Italy’s most influential 86-year-olds, were both hospitalized recently, causing concern. Pope Francis underwent surgery for a hernia that caused intestinal blockages, while Berlusconi was hospitalized for checkups related to his blood disease. Both these incidents came after recent medical scares.
The Pope was hospitalized for bronchitis in March and had a portion of his colon removed in 2021. He is also grappling with knee problems and sciatica, and now uses a cane or a wheelchair. After his operation, his physicians confirmed that he was recuperating well.
Berlusconi has fought prostate cancer in the past and was admitted to intensive care in April. In 2009, he was struck by a statuette of the Milan cathedral which caused a fracture in his nose. His physician, Dr. Zangrillo, claimed that Berlusconi’s hospitalization this time was not connected to any alarming circumstances.
President Sergio Mattarella of Italy and the pope’s social media accounts were filled with support messages. La Repubblica newspaper featured a picture of Mr. Berlusconi on the top of its website. Italian Senator Maurizio Gasparri wished the former prime minister good health. Berlusconi still holds a seat in Italy’s Parliament and is the president of his center-right Forza Italia party. After being a dominating figure in Italy’s political, business, and media worlds, he is now a rather marginalized figure. However, he still represents a potential political threat.
Pope Francis, a reformist head of the Roman Catholic church advocating for the less fortunate, had previously stated he would resign if his health conditions prevent him from leading the church. However, he has also said that he believes being pope is a lifetime position.
The health issues of these influential Italian figures are a cause of worry for the entire country.
