Emperor Akihito diagnosed with arteriosclerosis

His Imperial Majesty the Emperor Akihito of Japan has been diagnosed with arteriosclerosis, a form of hardening of the arteries. The Emperor was told of the health problem after being admitted to hospital for checks.

The Emperor, who is 77 years old is expect to continue with his public duties, though regular check ups are scheduled for sometime to come in order to make sure progress is made.

Doctors ordered tests after a routine checkup in January revealed symptoms of insufficient blood flow to the heart.

Empress Michiko accompanied Emperor Akihito to the hospital and stayed there while his was undergoing checks. The Emperor, who acceded to the throne in 1989 underwent surgery for prostate cancer in 2003.
As the titular head of state in Japan, he plays a largely ceremonial role but is held in deep respect by many Japanese.