Pope Leo XIV has announced that he will undergo surgery in the coming days after doctors discovered a small nodule in his lung during recent medical examinations. The 71-year-old pontiff shared the news on Sunday, October 11, reassuring the faithful that the growth was detected at a very early stage and is localized.
Speaking after his weekly Angelus prayer overlooking St. Peter’s Square, the pope explained that his doctors recommended surgery to remove the nodule. He said he had decided to follow their medical advice and thanked those offering prayers and support during the upcoming procedure.
According to Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni, the operation is scheduled for the first days of the coming week at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital. The Vatican estimates that the pope’s postoperative hospital stay will last approximately one week.
The Vatican has not disclosed whether the nodule is benign or malignant. Although the pope described it as having been identified early and being well localized, its precise nature has not been publicly confirmed.
The announcement has prompted messages of support and prayers from Catholic leaders and faithful around the world. Pope Leo expressed gratitude for their spiritual closeness as he prepares for the procedure.
The planned surgery comes as the pontiff continues his responsibilities as leader of the Catholic Church. He is also scheduled to undertake a pastoral visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru in November, although the Vatican has not yet clarified whether the operation and recovery period will affect those plans.
Pope Leo XIV, elected in May 2025, is the first American-born pope. His announcement has placed renewed attention on his health, with the Vatican expected to provide further information as he undergoes treatment and recovery.
For now, the pontiff has asked for prayers as he follows his doctors’ recommendations. Further updates are expected as details about the procedure and his recovery become available.
