Pope Leo XIV to Undergo Surgery to Remove Lung Nodule

VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV said Sunday that he will undergo surgery in the coming days to remove a nodular lesion discovered on his lung during a recent medical examination.

The 71-year-old pontiff said the lesion was detected at an early stage and is “circumscribed,” meaning it is well localized. The Vatican later confirmed that the procedure is expected to take place early in the week, followed by an estimated recovery of about seven days.

The American pope disclosed the diagnosis during his traditional Sunday noon blessing. He thanked those gathered for their support and asked them to keep him in their prayers.

Leo has no previously reported major health conditions and is regarded as physically active. His routine has included weekly tennis matches and swimming at the papal summer residence in Castel Gandolfo.

The pope is scheduled to make a major international trip from Nov. 6 through Nov. 17, with stops in Uruguay, Argentina and Peru. It remains uncertain whether the operation and recovery period will alter those plans, although Leo said earlier Sunday that he intended to make the journey.

Speaking in Italian, Leo said doctors found “a small, localized nodule in my lung” during a recent checkup. “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 said.

“The surgery is already scheduled for the coming days. Thank you for your spiritual support, and I entrust myself to your prayers,” Leo added.

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Leo’s predecessor, Pope Francis, died April 21, 2025, after suffering a stroke following a prolonged hospitalization. His respiratory crisis developed into double pneumonia. Francis had chronic lung disease and underwent surgery to remove part of one lung when he was young.

Leo is expected to receive treatment at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, the facility where Francis and earlier popes were cared for. The hospital maintains a special apartment for pontiffs.

Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, one of the few outsiders who visited Francis during his final hospitalization, offered Leo her support and that of the Italian government “as he faces this challenge in the coming days.” In a statement, she said the pope’s “serenity and calm” while discussing the surgery were reassuring.

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Barry reported from Milan.