Pope Leo XIV to Undergo Lung Surgery After Nodule Found During Routine Exam
Pope Leo XIV announced Sunday that doctors found a small, localized nodule in his lung during a routine medical exam. The 71-year-old pontiff is scheduled for surgery at Rome's Gemelli Hospital early this week, with a recovery period of about one week expected.
Pope Leo XIV told the crowd gathered in St. Peter's Square on Sunday that he would undergo surgery to remove a nodule found in his lung.
The announcement came during his weekly Angelus prayer on October 11, 2026. Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni confirmed the procedure is scheduled for early this week at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, the same facility used by previous popes for medical care.
Doctors detected the growth during routine medical examinations. The Pope described it as "small" and "well-localized," discovered at a "very early stage." His medical team recommended surgery.
Medical experts note that lung nodules are common in older adults. Most are benign, but removal is often advised when they cross certain diagnostic thresholds. Pope Leo, 71, is generally considered to be in good health and plays tennis regularly.
Recovery is expected to take about one week. The Pope has an international trip scheduled for November 6-17 to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. He indicated Sunday that he intends to proceed with that visit.
The Vatican has not disclosed whether the nodule is malignant. Further details are expected after the procedure.
