Pope Leo, 71, to undergo emergency surgery in days after ‘early-stage diagnosis’

Pope Leo XIV has announced he is set to undergo surgery in the coming days after receiving an “early-stage diagnosis”.

The 71-year-old pontiff told Catholics in his Angelus that his doctors had discovered “a localised nodule” in his lung.

Speaking from the Apostolic Palace window during the service, Leo told the thousands of faithful gathered below that the growth had been caught at a very early stage.

He said his medical team had recommended surgical intervention and that he had opted to follow their guidance, with a date for the procedure already set.

“Recently, during some medical examinations, doctors discovered a well-defined lung nodule, detected at a very early stage and clearly localised,” the Pope told the crowd.

“The doctors consider it appropriate to intervene, and so, following their advice, I have decided to undergo surgery to have it removed.”

Leo confirmed that the operation had already been arranged “for the coming days” and thanked those present for their support.

“I thank you and entrust myself to your prayers,” the Pontiff said.

The announcement drew applause from the assembled worshippers, after which Leo wished them a “happy Sunday”.

Matteo Bruni, director of the Holy See Press Office, provided further details after journalists asked questions.

He confirmed the operation would take place at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, a medical facility long associated with papal care.

Mr Bruni specified that the surgical procedure was scheduled for the first days of next week, with an estimated post-operative recovery period of roughly one week.