ROME — Pope Leo XIV said Sunday that he would undergo surgery in the coming days after doctors discovered a nodule in his lung, marking his first major medical intervention since becoming the first U.S.-born pontiff last year.
Speaking to crowds during his regular Sunday address in St. Peter’s Square, the 71-year-old said that the nodule was detected “at a very early stage and is well localized,” and that he would follow the advice of doctors and have it removed. The surgery is set to take place at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, and Leo is expected to have a recovery time of one week, Vatican officials said.
“Thank you for your spiritual closeness, and I entrust myself to your prayers,” Leo told worshipers Sunday.
Lung nodules are masses of dense tissue, and the Vatican did not immediately disclose further details about the one detected in the pope’s lung. Leo is not known to suffer from serious medical conditions and is known for keeping physically fit, including playing regular tennis matches.
The operation, officials say, is not expected to affect the pope’s trip to Latin America, where an intense 12-day schedule will bring him to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru starting Nov. 6. Millions of faithful are poised to turn out for an array of events, including Leo’s homecoming to Peru — a country where the Chicago-born pope became naturalized as a citizen and served as a missionary and bishop.
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