Pope Leo XIV to Undergo Preventive Lung Surgery

Pope Leo XIV announced on Sunday that he will undergo surgery to remove a small, localized nodule in his lung, which was discovered at an early stage. “It was detected at a very early stage and is well‑localized,” the pontiff said. “The doctors believe that it is best to intervene, so, following their advice, I have decided to undergo surgery to remove it. The operation is already scheduled to take place in the coming days.”

The announcement was made while the Pope was addressing those gathered in St. Peter’s Square for the Angelus prayer, and the statement was subsequently shared on social media.

He added, “I thank you for your spiritual closeness and entrust myself to your prayers.”

Medical reports indicate the nodule was not confirmed as cancerous; CNN notes that most lung nodules are non‑cancerous, but given its early detection and localized nature, removal was recommended as a precaution.

The Vatican said the surgery will be performed early next week, with an expected week‑long recovery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, which houses a dedicated papal apartment. Normal Vatican operations will continue, though any decisions requiring the Pope’s signature or input will be delayed during his convalescence.

Plans for a forthcoming 11‑day pastoral trip to South America—visiting Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru beginning November 6—remain under review as the Holy See assesses the Pope’s postoperative recovery.

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