Pope Leo XIV Schedules Lung Nodule Surgery

Pope Leo XIV told the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday that doctors had identified a localized nodule in his lung during recent tests. He said the condition was detected early and, on medical advice, he will have the nodule removed surgically in the coming days.

"Recently, during some medical tests, doctors discovered a localized nodule in my lung," the pontiff said from the Apostolic Palace window.

"It was detected at a very early stage and is well localized. The doctors believe it is best to intervene, so, following their advice, I have decided to undergo surgery to have it removed."

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed that the operation is scheduled for the first days of the week and that post-operative recovery is expected to last about one week. Leo thanked onlookers for their prayers and concluded his address with a wish for a happy Sunday.

In his regular address, the pope also called for an end to the war in Ukraine and for safe grain transport across the Black Sea, emphasizing that “the daily bread of millions of people cannot be held hostage by war.”

The pontiff, 71, is known for an active lifestyle, including weekly tennis. He has a planned trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru in November, though it is unclear whether the surgery will affect the itinerary.