Pope Francis, the Roman Catholic leader, is scheduled to undergo surgery for an abdominal hernia at a hospital in Rome.

The Vatican announced that the 86-year-old pope is experiencing recurrent and worsening symptoms from the hernia, which is causing pain.

Following a brief visit to Gemelli hospital on Tuesday for clinical tests, Pope Francis conducted his weekly general audience before preparing for the surgery.

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The operation, called a laparotomy and abdominal wall surgery, will be performed under general anesthesia.

The Vatican stated that the pope will remain in the hospital for several days to ensure a normal post-operative recovery.

Over the past year, Pope Francis has faced various health issues, including colon surgery, diverticulitis, bronchitis, persistent knee pain, and sciatica.

Concerns about his health have sparked speculation about his future, with comparisons drawn to his predecessor, Benedict XVI, who resigned in 2013 due to declining health.