RismadarVoice Reporters
October 13, 2026
Pope Leo XIV has been admitted to the Agostino Gemelli University Hospital in Rome for surgery to remove a small nodule discovered in his lung during routine medical examinations.
The 71-year-old pontiff arrived at the hospital on Tuesday, October 13, with the operation scheduled for the afternoon.
The Vatican said the growth was detected at an early stage and was well localised, prompting doctors to recommend its surgical removal.
Pope Leo disclosed the medical finding on Sunday, October 11, while addressing worshippers gathered in St Peter’s Square for the Angelus prayer.
He explained that he had accepted medical advice to undergo the procedure and thanked the faithful for their prayers and support.
The surgery is expected to be performed by a thoracic surgical team led by Professor Stefano Margaritora.
According to the Vatican, the Pope is expected to remain hospitalised for approximately one week while recovering from the operation.
His public audiences and scheduled engagements have been cancelled until October 20 to allow sufficient time for treatment and recovery.
The hospitalisation marks the first publicly announced major medical challenge of Leo’s pontificate since his election as head of the Roman Catholic Church on May 8, 2025.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, said the pontiff had remained calm following the discovery of the nodule.
Other senior Catholic officials who recently met the Pope also described him as relaxed and in good spirits ahead of the procedure.
Although pulmonary nodules can develop for different reasons, including non-cancerous conditions, the Vatican has not disclosed whether the growth is malignant.
Medical specialists say further examination of the removed tissue may be necessary to establish its nature and determine whether additional treatment is required.
The Pope’s admission comes weeks before his planned pastoral visit to South America, scheduled for November 6 to 17, covering Uruguay, Argentina and Peru.
The Vatican has indicated that the pontiff intends to proceed with the journey, although his recovery will remain an important consideration.
During his hospitalisation, senior Vatican officials are expected to continue routine administrative responsibilities, while engagements requiring the Pope’s direct participation will be adjusted.
The Vatican is expected to provide further information on the outcome of the operation and the pontiff’s recovery.
