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

Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to undergo surgery in Rome early this week to remove a localized lung nodule. The 71-year-old pontiff announced the procedure on Sunday, October 11, following a recent medical examination that detected the growth.

The operation will take place at Gemelli Hospital, the traditional facility for papal medical care. According to Vatican officials, the nodule was identified at a “very early stage” and is described as well-localized or circumscribed. Medical staff expect the Pope to have a recovery period of approximately one week, aided by his generally active lifestyle, which includes regular swimming and tennis.

This procedure marks the first significant health challenge for the former Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost since his election on May 8, 2025. As the first U.S.-born pope in the history of the Catholic Church, his health is being closely monitored by both the Vatican and international observers. He succeeded Pope Francis, who passed away in April 2025.

The nodule was detected at a very early stage during a routine medical examination.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed that the lung surgery this week will occur in the “first days” of the week.

The surgery comes just weeks before a high-profile “Apostolic Journey” to South America. Pope Leo XIV is currently scheduled to visit Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6 to 17. Despite the impending operation, the Vatican has indicated that the Pope intends to proceed with the 11-day, multi-country tour.

The Pope intends to maintain his scheduled travel to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru in November.

Medical experts generally note that while many lung nodules found during routine checks are benign, surgical removal is often recommended for a definitive diagnosis when there is any suspicion of malignancy. The Vatican has not released further clinical details regarding the specific nature of the nodule beyond its early detection and localized status.

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