Akihito faces hospitalization for heart tests after routine checkup
- Japan’s former emperor Akihito will be hospitalized for heart tests due to an unspecified issue identified during a routine checkup.
- He is 91 years old and has a history of heart bypass surgery from 2012.
- His hospitalization may have implications for the current emperor and the Japanese royal family's activities.
In Japan, Emperor Emeritus Akihito is set to be hospitalized for heart tests after a routine checkup raised concerns regarding his health. Reports from various Japanese media, including Kyodo News Service, indicate that the 91-year-old former emperor will be admitted to the University of Tokyo Hospital starting Tuesday. The Imperial Household Agency has not provided any comments regarding these reports, as it was a national holiday when inquiries were made. Akihito, who abdicated the Chrysanthemum Throne in 2019, previously underwent heart bypass surgery in 2012, which raises further concerns about his cardiac health in light of this recent development. His family, particularly his son, the current Emperor Naruhito, is likely to be affected by this news, as he may need to adjust his schedule to support his father's health needs. Considering Akihito's age and medical history, this situation has prompted renewed attention to his health status and the implications for the Imperial Family’s responsibilities and activities. Moreover, the public's reaction to this news and the portrayal of Akihito's health in the media reflect ongoing interest in Japan’s royal family, especially during times of health crises.