Japan's emperor enters hospital for heart surgery

An official from the Imperial Household Agency said Friday that a medical team will operate on the 78-year-old monarch Saturday at University of Tokyo Hospital.

The operation was scheduled after tests last weekend showed that Akihito's heart condition had worsened compared to a year ago.

The palace said the surgery will help the emperor enjoy a relatively active life.

Akihito has had various health problems in recent years, including pneumonia and prostate cancer. He has cut back on public duties but still appears regularly at events.