Blair Marshall: Lung Function

Pope Francis Dept: The only threat the 76-year-old pontiff might face from his diminished lung capacity is from pneumonia, which can be caused by common bacteria and viruses in the environment, said Blair Marshall, chief of thoracic surgery at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, according to The Star. READ MORE: Pope Francis humility on display as he stops by hotel to pick up bags after praying at shrine Pope Francis , who had part of a lung removed at age 21 because of illness, probably wont be physically restricted in any way as a result. The amount of lung function at birth well exceeds what the average person needs, Marshall said. Recent scientific reports suggest the lung is able to partially regenerate when it is damaged at an early age. The new pope lung issue shouldnt restrict his travel schedule or his ability to perform the high-stress role of leading the church, she said. (www.immigrantscanada.com). As reported in the news.