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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Nicole Winfield and Colleen Barry

Pope Leo XIV is set to enter a Rome hospital for removal of a lung nodule

Vatican Pope Surgery - (Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Pope Leo XIV was expected to be admitted to a Rome hospital Tuesday for the removal of a lung nodule in an operation experts say will determine whether the lesion is malignant and if other treatment is needed.

Leo has offered a rare level of transparency about the first publicly disclosed major health problem of his 17-month papacy. He revealed the discovery of the small, localized nodule during his Sunday noon prayer and announced that he would have it removed.

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