Pope Leo XIV unexpectedly announced following Sunday’s midday prayer in St. Peter’s Square that he is due to undergo a lung operation. He stated that recent medical examinations revealed a limited nodule in his lung, noting that it was detected in a very early stage and is well-localized. Following the medical advice, he has decided to proceed with a surgery to remove the growth, and the procedure is scheduled to take place in the coming days.
Pope Leo XIV has been the Bishop of Rome since May 8, 2025. As the head of the Roman Catholic Church and the sovereign of the Vatican City State, he was elected as the pope in the fourth round of voting after the death of Pope Francis in April 2025.
