Pope Leo XIV to have ‘early-stage’ lung nodule surgically removed

Published October 11, 2026 10:15am ET | Updated October 11, 2026 10:15am ET



Pope Leo XIV announced Sunday that he will undergo surgery to remove a nodule discovered in his lung, marking the first major health concern for the 71-year-old pontiff since he became the leader of the Catholic Church last year.

Leo revealed the diagnosis during his weekly Sunday blessing in St. Peter’s Square, telling worshippers that doctors discovered the abnormal growth during a recent examination and recommended its removal.

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