Pope Leo to undergo surgery to remove nodular lesion on lung

Pope Leo XIV announces during his Sunday noon blessing that he will undergo a lung surgery in the coming days.

Leo makes the announcement at the end of his regular address, revealing that he will be operated on to remove a nodular lesion

on his lung recently found after a medical check up.

The American pontiff tells pilgrims in St. Peter's Square the small nodule was detected at a very early stage and is "well-contained,"

but does not say whether it is believed to be malignant.

The Vatican says the procedure is planned at a Rome hospital for the first days of this week and the estimated post-operative recovery time will be about one week.

71-year-old Leo has no previously known health problems, enjoys sports, and is considered to be physically active.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has expressed personal support and that of the Italian government to wish the Holy Father well.