Pope Leo has been admitted to a hospital in Rome for an operation to remove a small growth from his lung. The surgery, deemed low risk, is expected to take place this afternoon. This news comes after a top Vatican cardinal described the discovery as having come "like a bolt out of the blue."
Background
During his angelus prayer on Sunday, the 71-year-old pontiff revealed that doctors had found a small nodule on his lung during a routine check-up. He stated that the nodule was "well-contained" and detected early.
“"The doctors believe it would be right to intervene and so, following their advice, I have decided to have the operation to remove it," Leo told the crowds gathered in St Peter’s Square.
Leo, who became the first US-born leader of the Roman Catholic Church in May 2022, is currently receiving treatment at Gemelli Hospital in Rome. A large crowd greeted him upon his arrival.
Current Situation
While the Vatican has not disclosed the exact timing of the operation, Italian media reports suggest it could occur on Tuesday afternoon. All of Leo's appointments have been cancelled until October 20.
