Utoo Radio with Other News Sources - February 23, 2025 - Pope Francis is in critical condition with early kidney failure, a condition he has been battling for a second day.

He is also suffering from double pneumonia and a complex lung infection.

Despite this, Francis remains alert and responsive, attending mass and receiving high flows of supplemental oxygen.

Some blood tests showed initial, mild kidney failure, but doctors believe it is under control.

Francis' decreased platelet count, necessary for clotting, is now stable.

The prognosis remains reserved due to the complexity of the clinical picture and the need for drug therapies to provide feedback.

Francis has been in hospital for over a week since being admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on 14 February.

He required a blood transfusion due to a low platelet count, which is associated with anemia.

The Vatican has confirmed that the transfusion has shown benefit and resulted in an increase in Francis's haemoglobin levels.

Despite his condition, Pope Francis is expected to celebrate Mass and ordained deacons as part of the Vatican's Holy Year commemoration.