Pope Leo XIV to Have Lung Surgery This Week

Pope Leo XIV revealed to thousands of faithful during the Angelus prayer on October 11, 2026, that he will undergo surgery to remove a small nodule found in his lung. Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, confirmed that the operation is set for the first days of that week, with an estimated recovery period of about one week.

The nodule was detected early and is described as "well-localised," indicating it has not spread. Medical experts note that most lung nodules are benign, with up to 95% turning out to be non-cancerous.

The surgery will take place at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital in Rome, a facility known for treating several pontiffs. The Pope's medical team recommended surgical removal rather than a watchful waiting approach, consistent with clinical guidance for such nodules.

The Vatican has not yet provided details on how the Pope's upcoming duties will be managed during his recovery.