Bestselling Author Keigo Higashino Dies of Colon Cancer at 68! Don’t Ignore These 3 Symptoms—NHSA Reveals One Method That Cuts Mortality by 40%

Bestselling Japanese mystery writer Keigo Higashino passed away in the early hours of July 23 due to colorectal cancer at the age of 68. The news was announced by Kodansha on the 27th, drawing renewed attention to the importance of early detection and screening for colorectal cancer. According to the latest cancer registry data from Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare, 19,074 people were newly diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2023, making it the second most common cancer after lung cancer. In 2025 mortality statistics, colorectal and anal cancers remain the third leading cause of cancer deaths.

Colorectal cancer is often difficult to detect in its early stages. Most cases develop gradually from adenomatous polyps in the intestinal lining, but these polyps typically cause no noticeable symptoms in their early phase, making self-detection unlikely. As the lesion progresses, some individuals may experience symptoms such as blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits or stool shape, and abdominal pain—symptoms easily mistaken for hemorrhoids or general gastrointestinal discomfort.

The National Health Administration (NHSA) emphasizes that treatment outcomes are closely tied to the timing of detection. Patients diagnosed at stage 0 or 1 who receive appropriate treatment have a 5-year survival rate exceeding 90%. Since early-stage lesions often lack warning signs, relying solely on physical discomfort is insufficient. Regular screening remains the most reliable method for early detection.

Starting in 2025, the government has expanded the age range for publicly funded colorectal cancer screening. Individuals aged 45 to 74, as well as those aged 40 to 44 with a family history of colorectal cancer in a parent, child, or sibling, are now eligible for a free fecal immunochemical test (FIT) every two years. This non-invasive test requires only a small stool sample to detect microscopic bleeding invisible to the naked eye.

According to evidence-based data recently released by the NHSA, undergoing FIT every two years reduces the incidence of advanced colorectal cancer by approximately 29% and lowers mortality by about 35%. A positive test result does not mean cancer is present, but it necessitates prompt follow-up with a colonoscopy to identify the source of bleeding. If polyps are found, they can be removed immediately, preventing further progression.

Colorectal cancer risk increases with age, particularly for those over 50, who are strongly advised to undergo regular screening. Individuals previously diagnosed with adenomatous polyps or inflammatory bowel disease, or those with a family history of colorectal cancer, are also at higher risk and should consult their physicians to determine appropriate screening methods and frequency.

The NHSA reminds the public that a negative FIT result only indicates no abnormality was detected in this test—it does not eliminate future cancer risk. Regular screening according to guidelines remains essential. Individuals experiencing persistent rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or abdominal discomfort should seek medical evaluation promptly, even if their next scheduled public screening has not yet arrived.