Renowned Author Keigo Higashino Passes Away at 68 from Colorectal Cancer; Doctors Warn: 'Early Stages Show No Symptoms' – Seek Medical Help Immediately if 8 Warning Signs Appear

Tragic news has emerged regarding Japan's immensely popular mystery writer, Keigo Higashino. His official website and social media channels announced this afternoon (27th) that Higashino passed away on the 23rd due to colorectal cancer at the age of 68. The farewell ceremony and funeral have already been held quietly by family members. Higashino authored over 100 classic works throughout his life, and the news has shocked book lovers worldwide. The Ministry of Health and Welfare warns that colorectal cancer often shows no obvious symptoms in its early stages and advises people aged 50 and above to be especially vigilant. If changes in bowel habits or blood in stool persist for more than two weeks, immediate medical examination is essential.

Japan's literary giant Keigo Higashino dies of colorectal cancer at 68! Doctors issue warning: 'Early stages are asymptomatic' – seek medical help immediately upon noticing any of the 8 warning signs

According to health education materials from the Ministry of Health and Welfare, colorectal cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer among Taiwanese people and is increasing annually. Colorectal cancer primarily affects individuals over the age of 50. Across Taiwan, more than 10,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year, with over 5,000 deaths attributed to the disease.

The Ministry emphasizes that colorectal cancer often presents no symptoms in its early stages, making regular screening the most reliable prevention method. If any of the following warning signs persist for over two weeks, individuals should immediately consult a specialist physician:

1. Abnormal bowel movements: Blood in stool, mucus in stool, or narrow stools. 2. Changes in gastrointestinal habits: Alternating diarrhea and constipation, chronic diarrhea, or chronic constipation. 3. Systemic and physical changes: Unintentional weight loss, anemia, or a palpable abdominal mass (when the tumor is large).

Preventing Colorectal Cancer: Follow the '3 Principles'

The Health Promotion Administration offers free fecal occult blood testing every two years

The Ministry stresses that colorectal cancer is highly treatable when detected early, with a high cure rate. Regular quantitative immunochemical fecal occult blood testing (FIT) can reduce colorectal cancer mortality by 40%. If screening results are positive, a colonoscopy should be scheduled promptly.

To protect public health, the Health Promotion Administration provides free colorectal cancer screening subsidies:

- General public aged 45 to 74: Free quantitative immunochemical fecal occult blood test every two years. - Individuals aged 40 to 44 with a family history: Free quantitative immunochemical fecal occult blood test every two years.

Citizens can use their National Health Insurance card to receive the test at any NHI-contracted medical facility across Taiwan. Additionally, the Ministry urges the public to adopt three daily prevention principles: '5-a-day fruits and vegetables' (eat more fruits and vegetables, reduce meat intake, avoid smoked and grilled foods), 'maintain daily exercise,' and 'screen every two years' to comprehensively reduce the threat of colorectal cancer.

Who is at High Risk for Colorectal Cancer?

According to health education information from Cheng Ching Hospital, the following six groups are at high risk for colorectal cancer:

1. Over age 50: Colorectal cancer primarily affects people over 50, though younger individuals can still develop it. 2. Family history: If a first-degree relative has had colorectal cancer, the risk increases two to four times or more. 3. Long-term high-fat, low-fiber diet: Excessive consumption of grilled meats and processed foods, insufficient intake of fruits and vegetables. 4. Obesity and lack of exercise: Being overweight and leading a sedentary lifestyle can impair normal intestinal function. 5. Long-term smoking and heavy drinking: Harmful substances in tobacco and alcohol can cause cellular mutations and trigger cancer cell proliferation. 6. History of inflammatory bowel disease: Conditions such as colorectal polyps, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis increase cancer risk.

Debuted in 1985 with 'After School'! 'The Miracles of the Namiya General Store' and 'The Devotion of Suspect X' sell over 268 million copies globally

Keigo Higashino won the Edogawa Rampo Prize in 1985 with 'After School,' officially launching his writing career. He remained prolific throughout his life, creating numerous beloved classics such as 'The Secret,' 'The White Night,' 'Dream Flower,' 'The Miracles of the Namiya General Store,' 'The Devotion of Suspect X,' and popular series including 'Galileo' and 'The Magician.'

According to comprehensive Japanese media reports, Higashino published a total of 106 works in his lifetime. His books have sold over 100 million copies in Japan and approximately 168 million copies overseas, totaling 268 million copies sold globally. His influence on global mystery literature has been profound.