Pope Leo has revealed his plans to undergo surgery to remove a nodular lesion on his lung following a recent medical examination. The 71-year-old Pope assured that the nodule was discovered early and is well-contained. The Vatican confirmed that the surgery is scheduled for the beginning of the week and anticipates a one-week recovery period.
During his Sunday blessing, the American Pope informed the crowd about his upcoming surgery and expressed gratitude for their support and prayers. A lung nodule, typically a small abnormal area less than three centimeters in size, is often detected during chest or abdomen CT scans for reasons unrelated to lung cancer screenings, such as trauma or infections.
Pope Leo, elected in May 2025, is known for his good health and active lifestyle, engaging in weekly tennis and swimming activities. Despite the surgery, the Pope plans to proceed with his scheduled trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6-17, although potential itinerary adjustments may be necessary.
In a recent announcement, Pope Leo acknowledged the lung nodule and the decision to undergo surgery, seeking spiritual support from the public. The Pope’s health update followed his acknowledgment of the upcoming pastoral visit and his appreciation for the prayers from Catholics.
Leo’s predecessor, Pope Francis, passed away in April 2025 due to health complications, drawing attention to the importance of the current Pope’s medical situation. The surgery is expected to take place at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where previous pontiffs have received medical care, including Pope Francis.
Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni expressed her support for Pope Leo as he prepares for the surgical procedure, emphasizing the reassurance provided by his calm demeanor when addressing the situation. Lung nodules are commonly benign, with a low probability of being cancerous, especially if detected early and managed promptly.
