Pope Leo XIV to undergo surgery to remove lung nodule

Pope Leo XIV, the 71-year-old leader of the Roman Catholic Church, announced on Sunday, October 11, 2026, that he will undergo surgery to remove a localized nodule found in his lung. During his weekly address to the faithful in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope explained that the small growth was detected during a routine medical examination and characterized as being at a very early stage and well-contained.

The surgery is scheduled to take place within the next few days. While the Vatican has not disclosed the specific date of the procedure, it has confirmed that the recovery period is expected to last approximately one week. Despite the upcoming medical intervention, the Pope maintains his official schedule for the week, including a public Mass in St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday. He remains committed to his planned apostolic visit to Latin America, which is set for November 6–17, 2026.

Elected in May 2025, the 71-year-old pontiff has no previously reported history of serious health issues and is known for an active lifestyle, including playing tennis. Medical experts note that while lung nodules are small, localized lesions, the vast majority are benign, with fewer than 5% typically proving to be cancerous, although risks vary based on individual factors.