Pope Leo to undergo surgery after nodular lesion found in lung, Vatican says
The American pope has no previously known health problems and is known to be physically active
Pope Leo XIV is set to undergo surgery this week following the discovery of a nodular lesion in his lung, according to the Vatican. The 71-year-old Pope stated that the lesion was detected during routine medical examinations and is in an early, circumscribed stage. Surgeons recommend the procedure, leading Pope Leo to decide on the surgery to remove the lesion.
He made this announcement during his Sunday noon blessing, expressing gratitude for spiritual support and entrusting his recovery to prayers. The Vatican spokesperson, Matteo Bruni, did not disclose the hospitalization date, stating it would be within the first days of the week. The Pope is scheduled to be treated at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, which has a dedicated apartment for him.
The Pope has an important trip planned from November 6-17 to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. It remains uncertain whether the surgery and subsequent recovery will impact this itinerary, but Pope Leo reaffirmed his plans during his remarks on Sunday. Despite not having any known health issues previously, the Pope is known to enjoy an active lifestyle, participating in weekly tennis matches and swimming at the papal retreat in Castel Gandolfo.
Pope Leo's predecessor, Pope Francis, passed away on April 21, 2025, due to a stroke following a hospitalization caused by a respiratory crisis that evolved into double pneumonia. Francis had also undergone surgery to remove a portion of one lung while still young.
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