Rome:Pope Leo XIV announced that he will undergo surgery soon after a nodule was discovered on his lung during a routine medical check-up. Speaking to the public during his weekly Sunday prayers at St Peter's Square, the 71-year-old pontiff assured his followers that the nodule is "well-contained" and was detected "at an early stage."
According to Ghana Web, the Pope's medical team advised the surgery, and he has agreed to proceed with it. The Holy See Press Office spokesman, Matteo Bruni, stated that the operation is planned for the beginning of next week, and the Pope is expected to need about a week for recovery. Vatican News reported that the surgery will be conducted at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, which has a special Papal suite prepared for such occasions.
Pope Leo XIV, who succeeded the late Pope Francis, has been in his role for nearly a year and a half. He concluded his Angelus prayer by expressing gratitude for the spiritual support and prayers he has received. Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Sergio Mattarella have both extended their solidarity and well wishes for the Pope's recovery. Additionally, Israeli President Isaac Herzog sent wishes for a speedy recovery.
Born Robert Francis Prevost, Pope Leo is the first US citizen to hold the papacy and the 267th Pope. He was ordained in 1982 and is known for his missionary work in Peru with marginalized communities. Despite the upcoming surgery, the Pope confirmed that his planned visit to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru in November will proceed as scheduled. The Archbishop of Montevideo, Daniel Sturla, has stated that preparations for the visit will continue with increased enthusiasm, while calling for prayers for the Pope's health.