Pope Leo XIV has announced he will undergo surgery in the coming days after doctors found a small nodule on his lung during a routine medical check.
The 71-year-old pontiff made the announcement himself during his Sunday Angelus prayer on Oct 11 in St Peter’s Square.
“Recently, during some medical examinations, doctors found a localized nodule in my lung. It was detected at a very early stage and is well contained,” he said. “The doctors believe it is advisable to intervene, so, following their advice, I have decided to undergo surgery to remove it.”
The Vatican press office said the operation is scheduled for the first days of this week at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where popes are traditionally treated, with an expected recovery of about one week. befa61b2
It is the first health scare for Pope Leo since his election in May 2025 following the death of Pope Francis. The Vatican described him as otherwise active and healthy.
He is still expected to undertake his planned 11-day tour to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from Nov 6-17, though it is unclear if the surgery will affect preparations.
He thanked the faithful for their closeness and asked for prayers.
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