Pope Leo XIV is set to undergo surgery to remove a lung nodule detected during recent medical examinations, after doctors advised that the growth should be removed.

The 71-year-old pontiff announced the development on Sunday while addressing worshippers gathered in St Peter’s Square for the Angelus prayer, explaining that the nodule had been identified at an early stage.

“During some check-ups, doctors discovered a localized nodule on my lung,” the 71-year-old pope told those gathered in St Peter’s Square for the Angelus prayer on Sunday.

“It was detected at a very early stage and is well-defined. The doctors deem it advisable to intervene, so, following their advice, I have decided to undergo surgery to remove it.”

The procedure is scheduled for early next week, according to a Vatican spokesman, with the pope expected to spend about a week in hospital recovering.

A lung nodule is a small mass of tissue in the lung, and most are non-cancerous. However, further medical assessment may be needed to determine the nature of an individual nodule.

The announcement comes as Leo, who became pope in May 2025, continues to maintain an active lifestyle and a demanding schedule of meetings and public engagements. He plays tennis and remains physically active.

His upcoming surgery has also drawn attention to the health challenges faced by previous pontiffs. His predecessor, Pope Francis, spent an extended period in hospital and experienced multiple health complications in the final months of his life.

Despite the planned procedure, Leo is preparing for a major visit to Latin America from November 6 to 17, during which he is scheduled to travel to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru.

The pope also maintains a busy weekly routine, although Tuesdays are set aside for rest at the papal retreat of Castel Gandolfo.

Further details about his recovery and whether the procedure will affect his upcoming engagements have yet to be fully established.