Pope Leo Admitted to Hospital for Surgery to Remove Lung Nodule

Pope Leo XIV was admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital to remove a lung nodule after doctors said the growth had been detected at a 'very early stage.'

Pope Leo XIV went to the Augustino Gemelli Hospital in Rome on Tuesday for an operation to remove a small nodule in his lung.

Pope Leo XIV went to the Augustino Gemelli University Hospital in Rome on Tuesday to have a small nodule removed from his lung.

The 71-year-old pope said Monday that doctors discovered the nodule at a "very early stage" and recommended it be removed. According to Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni, the operation is not expected to take long and the pope will be in the hospital for about a week.

"The doctors found a small mass in the lung," Leo said after Angelus' speech in St. Peter's Square on Monday. It was identified in the early stages and placed in a good position."

Pope Leo announces lung tumor, surgery scheduled in "next few days"

He continued: "Doctors think it is advisable to intervene, and for this reason, according to their advice, I decided to have surgery to remove it." The surgery is scheduled for the next few days, I thank you for your spiritual closeness and rely on your prayers.

Pope Leo XIV started his historic 4-day trip from France

The Vatican did not disclose whether the nodule was cancerous, and further details about the pope's diagnosis or the planned procedure were not immediately available.

Pope Leo XIV will step down as the first American pope in history at the Vatican on Thursday, May 8, 2025. (Vatican Media)

The surprise announcement comes from American-born Stepp, who has no known previous health problems and is known for leading an active lifestyle.

Pope Leo visited the site of miraculous cures and met people whose inexplicable healings baffled doctors.

The Pope is also set to embark on a major international tour from November 6-17, with stops in Uruguay, Argentina and Peru. It is not yet clear if his surgery and recovery will affect travel plans.

NATO ambassador Trump said: Ukraine's attacks on Russia bring Putin closer to the negotiating table.

In addition to addressing the state of his health, Leo used his remarks on Sunday to renew his plea for peace in war-torn Ukraine, warning that the conflict continues to suffer beyond the country's borders.

"The war in martyred Ukraine continues to cause pain and suffering, even beyond its borders, especially in the poorest countries, where many people depend on the export of grains and cereals," the Pope said.