Pope Francis is unusually energetic and active for a 78-year-old, but the state of his health still generates headlines across the world. So who is the man that makes sure the Pope stays in tip-top shape?
Dr. Fabrizio Soccorsi has just been appointed as Pope Francis' personal physician. The 73-year-old doctor will accompany the Pope when he visits the United States and Cuba next month.
After receiving a degree in Medicine and Surgery from La Sapienza University in 1968, the doctor received his license to practice a year later.
An internal medicine specialist, Soccorsi has been a professor of medicine at his alma mater. He has also authored dozens of academic articles about medicine. He has held several positions at San Camillo Forlanini Hospital in Rome, including Chairman of Hepatology.
But the new doctor is also familiar with the Vatican. He advises Vatican City's Department of Health and Hygiene. He has also lent his expertise to the Medical Committee for the Congregation of the Causes of Saints.
The Pope's previous doctor, Patrizio Polisca, will remain as Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's doctor.
