Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to the lungs, causing coughing and shortness of breath. Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church, has been experiencing health issues recently. He was admitted to Rome's Gemelli Polyclinic for treatment and diagnostic tests. - Pope Francis, 88, was admitted to the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli in Rome for bronchitis treatment and medical tests. - The Vatican confirmed the hospitalization, stating it was for ongoing bronchitis treatment. - The Pope had been experiencing breathlessness and delegated the reading of his speeches prior to hospitalization. - This hospitalization follows a history of health concerns for the Pope, including previous bouts of influenza and abdominal surgery. - The Pope's hospitalization led to the cancellation of several planned public events.