Pope Leo XIV has announced that he will undergo surgery to remove a small lung nodule, bringing renewed attention to the health of the 71-year-old pontiff as he prepares for a series of major international engagements.
The pope shared the news with pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square following the traditional Angelus prayer, explaining that doctors discovered the abnormality during recent medical examinations. According to the information provided, the nodule was detected at an early stage and is localized, allowing physicians to recommend its surgical removal.
“The surgery is already scheduled for the next few days,” Leo said, while expressing gratitude for the support of those gathered in the square and asking them to remember him in their prayers.
Although the announcement has naturally prompted questions about the pope’s health, the Vatican has not disclosed whether the nodule is cancerous. No diagnosis of lung cancer has been announced, and further conclusions about the condition would be premature without additional medical information.
