Pope Leo XIV to Undergo Surgery for Early-Stage Lung Nodule

Pope Leo XIV has announced that he will undergo surgery in the coming days after doctors detected an early-stage nodule on his lung during a routine medical checkup. Speaking to the public during his weekly Sunday Angelus prayers in St. Peter's Square in Rome, the 71-year-old pontiff confirmed that he agreed to the operation following the advice of his medical team.

Addressing gathered pilgrims, the Pope reassured the crowd that the nodule is well-localized, well-contained, and was identified at an early stage. He expressed gratitude to the public for their spiritual closeness and requested continued prayers as he prepares for the procedure.

Procedure Details and Recovery Timeline

Matteo Bruni, spokesperson for the Holy See Press Office, informed reporters that the surgical intervention is scheduled for the early part of next week. According to Vatican News, the Holy See's official news outlet, the operation will take place at Gemelli Hospital in Rome. The pontiff will stay in the hospital's dedicated papal suite, which was originally established following the May 1981 assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II.

Medical officials expect the Pope to require approximately one week of recovery time following the operation. Despite the upcoming surgery, Pope Leo confirmed during his Sunday service that his planned international journey to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru scheduled for November remains on track.

Background and Support

Following the announcement, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni shared a statement on X offering her personal solidarity to the Pope as he prepares for the procedure.

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, became the 267th leader of the Catholic Church in 2025 following the reign of Pope Francis, making him the first American to hold the position. Ordained in 1982, he previously served for many years as a missionary in Peru, where he focused his efforts on working alongside marginalized communities.