The UGT expresses the desire to guarantee the dignity of wages and pensions. Simultaneously, Pope Leo XIV, at 71 years old, announced that he has decided to undergo surgery to remove a pulmonary nodule, following medical recommendations.
The Pope clarified that the procedure is already scheduled for the coming days, after mentioning this at the end of the Angelus prayer. According to a Vatican spokesperson, the operation should take place in the first days of the week starting on October 12, and the expected hospital stay is approximately one week, which should not affect the administration of the Holy See.
The medical intervention will be performed at the Roman Gemelli hospital, an institution that has historically received popes for healthcare since the time of John Paul II. The pulmonary nodule was detected during recent health examinations and is described as being in a very early and well-localized stage.
This announcement caused surprise in the Catholic community, generating various reactions in Portugal. The Portuguese Episcopal Conference expressed support and prayers for the health of Pope Leo XIV. Cardinal Américo Aguiar praised the transparent, simple, and human manner in which Pope Leo XIV communicated the need for surgery, sending words of friendship, solidarity, and prayer.
Leo XIV was elected pope by cardinals from around the world in May 2025 and is considered relatively young for a leader of the Church.