(Adnkronos) – The number of centenarians in Japan has exceeded 100,000 for the first time in the country’s history. The Ministry of Health in Tokyo announced this, explaining that 107,677 centenarians currently live in Japan, the highest number in the world, 88% of whom are women. The oldest woman is Kishimoto Fuyo, 114 years old, residing in Kyoto, while the oldest man is Kato Hikaru, 112 years old, from Kumamoto. Health Minister Kenichiro Ueno said he was “happy that so many people live long, healthy and active lives,” citing advances in medicine and technology.
Experts attribute the longevity of the Japanese to several factors, including a healthy diet and an active lifestyle. The first census of centenarians in Japan dates back to 1963, when 153 people aged 100 or older were recorded.
