Prime Minister Abe's Illness
Prime Minister Abe Shinzo has had a chronic condition called ulcerative colitis since his teens. People with the disease suffer severe abdominal pain and persistent diarrhea, due to inflamed linings of the large intestine.
Abe first became prime minister in 2006 at age 52 -- the youngest in postwar Japan. But he left office after about one year as he began to suffer severe symptoms.
Abe made a comeback in December 2012 and launched his second administration. His condition apparently stabilized, thanks to new medication that suppresses inflammation. Abe's tenure has since reached seven years and eight months.
But sources say abnormalities were found when Abe had a checkup in June. They say tests at Keio University Hospital on August 17 found that his condition had worsened.
The sources say a follow-up exam one week later showed that his symptoms had eased with the use of medicine. But doctors said Abe needed to continue medication over the coming year.
The prime minister is believed to have thought that he should never let his physical condition cloud his political judgment, and decided it would be difficult for him to remain in his post.
