Pope Leo XIV announced Sunday that he will undergo surgery to remove an early-stage nodule on his lung.
“Recently, during some medical tests, doctors discovered a localized nodule in my lung,” the American pontiff, 71, said during his noon prayer at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican.
“It was detected at a very early stage and is well localized,” Leo said from the window of the Apostolic Palace. “The doctors believe it is best to intervene, so, following their advice, I have decided to undergo surgery to have it removed.”
The pontiff said that surgery had already been scheduled “for the coming days,” and thanked onlookers for their support.
“I entrust myself to your prayers,” he said.
The news drew applause from the thousands gathered in the square, before he wished the crowd a “happy Sunday.” No further details were immediately released.
Leo announced the surgery at the end of his regular address, in which he appealed for an end to the war in Ukraine and the safe transport of grain across the Black Sea.
“The daily bread of millions of people cannot be held hostage by war,” he said.
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