In brief
After routine health checks at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for a thoracic operation to remove a small lung nodule. The 71‑year‑old pontiff, who has remained publicly cheerful, confirmed the procedure following a speech in St Peter’s Square. Doctors say the growth was early‑stage and removed for analysis, and the Vatican will update his status later that evening. His official duties have been paused until 20 October to allow recovery, while loyal followers keep their hope high. The event underscores the importance of prompt medical attention for unexpected health issues.
Pope Leo XIV has been admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital for surgery to remove a lump on his lung, detected during routine checks at the Vatican.
The operation is set for Tuesday afternoon, according to hospital officials.
The 71‑year‑old pontiff was welcomed by a large crowd that had waited hours outside the hospital to see him.
They cheered and sent well‑wishes as he passed, waving and smiling through a lowered rear window of his car.
Hospital staff met him on the steps. He smiled and shrugged in reply to “I'm sorry,” and staff assured him: “We're here for you.”
Leo XIV announced the operation publicly from the St Peter’s Square balcony on Sunday, after the Angelus blessing.
He described the nodule as "contained" and found "at a very early stage", but doctors advised removal.
The Vatican confirmed that the Gemelli thoracic team would perform the surgery, and promised an evening update.
His schedule has been cleared until 20 October to allow recovery.
Nodules are common and not always cancerous. When removed, doctors will test for disease signs.
The Vatican emphasised the pontiff, generally regarded as fit, showed no symptoms of illness or infection.
Cardinal Tarcisio Isao of Tokyo noted that Leo had an audience on Monday and felt physically fine; he sought early surgery to stay on track for a planned early‑November trip to Latin America, including a visit to Peru where the Pope served as missionary and bishop.
Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Parolin expressed that the news was a "bolt from the blue" but that the Pope’s serenity reassured the cardinals. He was confident in a steady recovery.
Outside Gemelli Hospital, some Catholics lingered after the Pope entered; one woman said, “He seems calm, so we are calm too – even though illness is always unpleasant.” Another shared her shock at his vulnerability, hoping the condition is superficial and contained.
Pope Leo arrived at Rome's Gemelli Hospital ahead of his surgery on Tuesday.
