Monday, October 12, 2026 -Pope Leo XIV is preparing to undergo surgery to remove a small nodule discovered in his lung during routine medical examinations, prompting prayers and messages of support from Catholics around the world.
The 71-year-old pontiff announced the planned operation on October 11, 2026, explaining that doctors detected the growth at an early stage and recommended removing it. The Vatican confirmed on October 12 that he will be admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Tuesday, October 13, with the procedure expected to take place in the coming days.
The Vatican has described the nodule as small and localised, but has not disclosed whether it is benign or cancerous. Medical experts note that lung nodules can have several causes and that many are non-cancerous, meaning the discovery alone does not confirm a cancer diagnosis.
Pope Leo has continued his scheduled engagements ahead of his hospital admission, demonstrating that he remains active while preparing for treatment. However, the Vatican expects his recovery to require approximately one week in hospital, and his public engagements have been cancelled through October 20.
The announcement has placed the Pope’s health and recovery firmly in the spotlight, particularly as he leads the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is scheduled to lead the Mass at St Peter’s Square on Wednesday, October 14, in the Pope’s absence.
While the Vatican has not announced any change to Leo’s planned November visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru, attention will remain on his recovery and any further medical updates. For now, the pontiff has thanked supporters for their prayers as he prepares to follow his doctors’ advice and undergo the recommended procedure.
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