Pope Leo XIV announces lung nodule, surgery planned in days

Pope Leo XIV disclosed on Sunday that he will undergo surgery to remove a small nodule from his lung, an announcement that interrupted his traditional Angelus prayer in St. Peter's Square. The 71-year-old pontiff stated that medical professionals identified the growth at a "very early stage" and recommended its removal. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed that the surgery is scheduled for the coming days and that the pope is expected to remain hospitalized for approximately one week.

During his address to thousands of faithful, Leo explained that doctors found a small lump in his lung that was "well situated." He noted that the medical team considered intervention appropriate, leading to his decision to proceed with the procedure. "The surgery is already scheduled for the next few days," Leo told the crowd, asking for their prayers and spiritual closeness. Vatican sources told Fox News that the operation is likely to take place at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, a facility often referred to as the "Pope's" hospital.

The Vatican has not disclosed whether the nodule is cancerous, and no further details regarding the specific diagnosis or the planned procedure were immediately available. The health concern came as a surprise to observers, as the American-born pontiff has no previously known health problems and maintains an active lifestyle. According to The Associated Press, Leo regularly plays tennis and swims at the papal summer retreat in Castel Gandolfo.

The announcement arrives just before a major international trip planned for Nov. 6-17, which includes stops in Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. It remains unclear whether the surgery and subsequent recovery period will affect those travel plans.

In addition to addressing his health, Pope Leo renewed his appeal for peace in Ukraine during the same remarks. He warned that the ongoing conflict continues to inflict suffering beyond the country's borders, particularly in the poorest nations that rely on Ukrainian exports of cereals and grains. The pope called on those involved in the conflict to guarantee the safe transport of grains through the Black Sea, stating that "the daily life of many people cannot be hostage to war."