Pope Leo to go to hospital Tuesday for lung nodule surgery

Pope Leo XIV, originally from the U.S., is set to be hospitalized for surgery to remove a lung nodule, as announced by the Vatican. The nodule was discovered during routine medical tests and is in an early, manageable stage. The pope, 71, shared this news during his Sunday prayer, emphasizing his decision to follow medical advice for surgery. This marks the first significant health event of his 17-month leadership, notable for its transparency compared to past papal health disclosures. Despite the upcoming surgery, Pope Leo continued his duties, including meetings and public appearances, and is scheduled for a major trip to South America in November. The Vatican has denied reports that inflammation prompted the tests, maintaining that the pope’s health remains stable. QUESTION: How might Pope Leo XIV’s openness about his health influence future transparency in the Vatican?