VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV announced Sunday that he will undergo surgery in the coming days to remove a lung nodule recently discovered during routine medical examinations.
Speaking from the window of the Apostolic Palace above St. Peter’s Square during his regular noon blessing, the 71-year-old pontiff told gathered pilgrims that physicians had detected a “circumscribed” and localized growth at an initial stage. He asked the faithful for their spiritual backing, stating that doctors recommended removing the nodule promptly.
“Recently, during some medical tests, doctors discovered a localized nodule in my lung,” Leo said to the crowd, as reported by NBC News. “It was detected at a very early stage and is well localized.” He added that following the counsel of his medical team, he chose to proceed with the operation, saying, “I entrust myself to your prayers.”
Hospitalization and recovery timeline
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed in a statement that the surgical procedure is set for the beginning of the week. Vatican officials said the pontiff is expected to remain hospitalized for approximately one week of postoperative recovery, ABC News reported.
The surgery is expected to take place at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, the primary healthcare facility where pontiffs historically receive care, according to reporting from the New York Post. The clinic maintains a specialized private suite reserved for Roman Catholic leaders.
The announcement brought applause from thousands of visitors gathered across the Vatican plaza. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni issued a public message offering the support of the Italian government, praising “the serenity and calm with which he spoke about it” during his Sunday appearance, The Guardian reported.
According to the American Cancer Society, lung nodules are small abnormal areas measuring less than three centimeters across that frequently appear on chest scans. Such findings are often detected during checks unrelated to cancer screenings, such as evaluations for respiratory infections or physical trauma.
Health background and upcoming travel
Leo has had no publicly reported medical problems and maintains a physically vigorous schedule, including weekly tennis matches and swimming sessions at the papal summer estate in Castel Gandolfo, news reports noted. Before mentioning his upcoming operation, the pope touched on global matters, calling for an end to fighting in Ukraine and the protection of grain transit corridors in the Black Sea.
Leo was born Robert Francis Prevost on the South Side of Chicago and became the first U.S.-born pope when the College of Cardinals elected him in May 2025 as the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church. Prior to his election, he worked for decades as a missionary and bishop in Peru before directing the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops. His predecessor, Pope Francis, died in April 2025 at age 88 from a stroke following a respiratory illness.
What remains to be determined is whether the medical intervention will disrupt the pope’s extensive diplomatic schedule. Leo is currently slated to travel across South America from Nov. 6 to Nov. 17, with stops scheduled in Uruguay, Argentina and Peru. While greeting pilgrims before his surgery announcement, the pope thanked Peruvian Catholics for prayers regarding his impending visit, suggesting he still hopes to proceed with the journey after completing his recovery.
