Pope Leo XIV to undergo surgery after doctors discover lung nodule

13:05

By: Azzat Manal

Pope Leo XIV to undergo surgery after doctors discover lung nodule

Pope Leo XIV has announced that he will undergo surgery in the coming days after doctors discovered a small, localized nodule in his lung during recent medical examinations. The 71-year-old pontiff said the abnormality was detected at a very early stage and that his medical team had recommended surgical intervention.

The pope disclosed the news on Sunday, October 11, while addressing worshippers gathered in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican. He explained that the nodule was well localized and said he had decided to follow his doctors’ advice and proceed with the operation. He also thanked the faithful for their support and prayers.

The Vatican press office subsequently confirmed that the procedure was scheduled for the beginning of the week. According to the statement, Leo is expected to remain in hospital for approximately one week following the operation. The procedure is planned at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, a major medical centre that has traditionally treated popes.

The Vatican has not disclosed further details about the nature of the lung nodule, and no diagnosis indicating whether it is benign or malignant has been announced. The pope’s statement that the finding was detected early provides information about its discovery, but does not by itself establish the underlying condition.

Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, Leo XIV became the first pope from the United States when he was elected head of the Roman Catholic Church in May 2025, succeeding Pope Francis. His election marked a historic moment for the Church, which has more than a billion followers worldwide.

The announcement comes as the Vatican continues its regular religious and diplomatic activities. The pope’s health is closely followed by Catholics around the world because of his central role in leading the Church and representing the Holy See internationally.

Further information about the outcome of the procedure and the pontiff’s recovery will depend on updates from the Vatican. For now, the Holy See has indicated that the operation is planned for the coming days, with an expected hospital stay of around one week.