Pope Leo XIV to Have Surgery for Lung Issue

Pope Leo XIV to Have Surgery for Lung Issue

Pope Leo XIV announced on Sunday that he will have surgery this week to remove a small spot (nodule) on his lung.

The 71-year-old Pope, who is American, shared the news during his regular Sunday prayer from his window in St. Peter’s Square. He explained that doctors found the spot early during routine medical tests.

“It was found very early,” Pope Leo told the crowd. “The doctors believe it is best to remove it, so following their advice, I have decided to have the surgery.”

He thanked the thousands of people gathered in the square and asked them to pray for him. The crowd clapped to show their support.

Details on the Surgery A Vatican spokesperson said the operation will happen early this week. The Pope is expected to spend about a week recovering after the surgery.

Pope Leo is normally active and healthy—he even plays tennis every week. He is scheduled to travel to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru in November, though it is not yet clear if the surgery will change his travel plans.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni sent her best wishes, saying she was comforted by how calm and peaceful the Pope seemed when making the announcement.

Who is Pope Leo XIV? Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, he became the first American pope when he was chosen in 2025. Before becoming pope, he spent many years serving as a priest and bishop in Peru. His father was a Navy veteran and school official, and his mother was a librarian.

He succeeded Pope Francis, who passed away last April at age 88.