Pope Leo XIV, 71, has successfully undergone a procedure to remove a small lung nodule, the Vatican confirmed following the surgery at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli University Hospital. The pontiff himself revealed on Monday that doctors had detected the nodule at a “very early stage” and recommended its removal, stating, “The doctors consider it appropriate to intervene and so, following their advice, I decided to have surgery to remove it.” The surgery proceeded as planned and on schedule, with Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni indicating that the Pope is expected to remain hospitalized for approximately one week. The nodule was described as a “small lump” that was “well situated,” though the Vatican has not yet disclosed whether it is cancerous. This unexpected health event comes as a surprise for the American-born pontiff, who is known for his active lifestyle, including playing tennis and swimming, and has no previously known significant health issues. The timing of the surgery and his subsequent recovery period raises questions about his upcoming international travel plans, including a major trip scheduled from November 6th to 17th to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru.
Adapted from: Latest World News on Fox News
