VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Leo XIV announced on Sunday that he will undergo surgery in the upcoming days to remove a nodular lesion on his lung, which was recently identified during routine medical examinations. The 71-year-old pontiff revealed that the nodule was discovered at an early stage and is considered “circumscribed” or well-localized. The Vatican has confirmed that the surgery is scheduled for the beginning of the week, with an anticipated recovery time of about one week.
The pope made this announcement while addressing the public during his Sunday noon blessing, expressing gratitude for the support he has received and entrusting himself to the prayers of the crowd. A lung nodule is defined by the American Cancer Society as a small abnormal area measuring less than 3 centimeters (approximately 1 inch), which may appear on a CT scan of the chest or abdomen. These scans are typically conducted to investigate trauma or lung infections rather than for lung cancer screenings.
Despite this recent health concern, Pope Leo XIV does not have any known pre-existing medical conditions and is regarded as physically active, participating in weekly tennis matches and swimming at the papal summer residence in Castel Gandolfo. The pope also has a significant trip planned from November 6-17, 2023, to South America, including visits to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. It remains uncertain whether the upcoming surgery and recovery period will impact this itinerary; however, he expressed his determination to proceed with the planned engagements.
While speaking in Italian, Leo mentioned, “During a recent medical check, doctors found a small, localized nodule in my lung. It was detected at a very early stage and is circumscribed. The doctors believe it’s best to take action, so, following their advice, I’ve decided to have surgery to remove it.” He further conveyed, “The surgery is already scheduled for the coming days. Thank you for your spiritual support, and I entrust myself to your prayers.”
Pope Leo XIV’s predecessor, Pope Francis, passed away on April 21, 2025, after suffering a stroke that followed a lengthy hospitalization due to a respiratory crisis that led to double pneumonia. Francis had a history of chronic lung disease and underwent lung surgery as a young man. Pope Leo XIV is expected to receive medical care at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, a facility where previous popes, including Francis, were treated, and which features a dedicated apartment for pontiffs.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who was one of the few outsiders to visit Pope Francis during his extended hospitalization, expressed her support, along with that of the Italian government, to Pope Leo XIV as he prepares for this medical procedure. In a statement, she noted that “the serenity and calm with which he spoke about it” were reassuring signs for all.
Reporting from Milan, this news sheds light on the health status of the current pope and highlights the ongoing support from the public and government amidst medical challenges.
