During his weekly noon blessing on October 11, 2026, Pope Leo XIV told the faithful that a nodule had been discovered on his lung during routine checks. He said it was found at a very early stage and was very localized, and that he would follow medical advice to have it removed in the coming days.
The pontiff described the growth as small and circumscribed, emphasizing that doctors had caught it early. He said the nodule was localized and detected at an early stage.
Dear friends, during some recent medical examinations, the doctors found a small, localized nodule in my lung. It was detected at a very early stage and is well-localized. The doctors believe that it is best to intervene, so, following their advice, I have decided to undergo surgery to remove it. The operation is already scheduled to take place in the coming days. I thank you for your spiritual closeness and entrust myself to your prayers.
Medical experts note that lung nodules are often benign, with the American Thoracic Society stating that fewer than 5 percent are cancerous.
Despite the impending surgery, Pope Leo XIV reiterated his intention to go ahead with a planned visit to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru in November.
The briefing noted a size threshold of three centimeters (about one inch) for lung nodules. The Pope's nodule was described as localized, but no exact measurement was given beyond the general threshold.
Pope Leo to undergo surgery to remove lung nodule dlvr.it/TVsm6M https://t.co/XAarEGfx2G
The Vatican confirmed that the operation will take place at Rome's Gemelli hospital. The procedure is already scheduled for the coming days, and doctors anticipate a recovery period of about one week before the Pope can resume his usual activities.
Despite the impending surgery, Pope Leo XIV reiterated his intention to go ahead with a planned visit to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru in November. He said he intends to proceed with the trip.
Pope Leo XIV announced Sunday he will undergo surgery in the coming days to remove a nodular lesion on his lung that was recently discovered during medical checks. https://t.co/EGwcdp9xw8
In his announcement, the Pope asked the faithful to pray for him, saying he entrusts himself to their spiritual support.
Apart from the lung nodule, the Pope is said to be in good health and maintains an active lifestyle.
Since assuming the papacy in 2025, Pope Leo XIV has not faced any significant health challenges. The lung nodule represents the first notable medical issue that has required surgical intervention during his tenure.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is noted as supportive of the Pope.