New Delhi, Oct. 13 -- Pope Leo XIV is set to undergo surgery to remove a small nodule in his lung after doctors discovered the growth during recent medical examinations, prompting questions about the condition, the procedure and what it could mean for the pontiff's health.

The 71-year-old pope announced the planned operation during his Sunday Angelus address on 11 October, telling worshippers that the nodule had been detected at a very early stage and was well localised.

He said his doctors had recommended surgery and that he had decided to follow their advice.

According to Vatican News, Leo is scheduled to be admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital on Tuesday, 13 October. The Vatican has estimated that his recovery will take approximately...