Pope Leo XIV, the 71‑year‑old head of the Catholic Church, said on Sunday that a lung nodule discovered at an early stage will be removed in surgery scheduled for the next few days at Rome’s [Gemelli Hospital](https://www.policlinicogemelli.it/), and that he expects to recover within roughly a week.
During his weekly Angelus address in St Peter’s Square, the pontiff explained that recent medical examinations revealed a small, localized growth on his lung. He added that physicians advised prompt intervention, and he has accepted their recommendation.
**What does the surgery involve?**
The operation will be a minimally invasive procedure aimed at excising the nodule. Vatican officials indicated that the surgery has already been arranged and that post‑operative monitoring will last about seven days before the pope resumes normal duties.
**Will the operation affect his travel plans?**
No official word has been given on whether the upcoming South American trip—scheduled for 6‑17 November to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru—will be altered. The Vatican is expected to issue an update once the pope’s recovery progress is clearer.
**How have leaders responded?**
Italian Prime Minister [Giorgia Meloni](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giorgia_Meloni) said the calm manner in which the pope delivered the news “reassures us,” and expressed personal closeness from both herself and the Italian government as he faces the forthcoming medical procedure.
The pontiff, born in Chicago, became the first U.S.‑born pope after succeeding Pope Francis in 2025. Since his election, he has taken a vocal stance on global issues, including criticism of the U.S.–Israel conflict with Iran and calls for peace in the face of geopolitical tensions.