TOKYO, July 13 (UPI) -- Japan's Emperor Akihito is contemplating abdication, national broadcaster NHK reported Wednesday.
Citing a source with Japan's Imperial Household Agency, it added that family members will accept the wishes of the 82-year-old emperor, who has reigned for 28 years. The agency said in May his official duties would be reduced. Since 2011, Emporer Akihito has been treated for bronchial pneumonia, had heart bypass surgery and received a hormone treatment to prevent a recurrence of prostate cancer.