Veteran Japanese news anchor, Kasai Shinsuke, has reportedly checked into a hospital and will take a two-week break to recuperate. There's no word on what has triggered this sudden leave, but it is affirmed that he requires ample rest for recovery. No further specifics regarding his health status were disclosed, leaving fans and industry insiders anxiously hoping for his speedy recovery.
Japanese culture is touhened by a strong work ethic. Thus, celebrities or public figures requiring health-related breaks often prompt serious concern. Furthermore, taking health breaks is increasingly perceived as a positive step, showing commitment to self-care and resulting in increased awareness around issues of health and wellness.
In the US or EU, news anchors taking health-related breaks is typically treated with a good degree of seriousness, though it doesn't often lead to significant public concern unless the individual is of exceptionally high profile or the health concern is severe. There is a greater general acceptance of public figures taking time for self-care and health needs.