In recent days, a statement made by a Twitter user has sparked intense debate among Japanese netizens. The message in question stated: “Otakus always say they want to die because they assume they will live until they are 80, when in reality they die at 40 or 50.“This statement had a strong impact on the community, provoking a flood of responses and reflections on the relationship between the otaku lifestyle and health.

Several Twitter users echoed this statement, sharing their own concerns and observations. One of the most notable comments was from one user who stated: “I'm serious, a lot of people in their 40s and 50s who are involved in the otaku hobby are dying suddenly from diseases. I feel like I'll probably die around that age because I'm leading an inappropriate lifestyle.“.

The central concern of this discussion revolves around the idea that the lifestyle associated with otaku culture may be contributing to the decline in life expectancy of its followers. Factors mentioned as possible causes include:

1. Sedentary lifestyle: Many otakus spend long hours sitting in front of the computer, watching anime, reading manga or playing video games. Lack of regular physical activity can lead to health problems such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
2. Unhealthy diet: It is common for anime and manga fans to opt for fast and low-nutritional foods, such as snacks, instant ramen and energy drinks, instead of a balanced diet.
3. Sleep deprivation: Anime and video game marathons often result in sleepless nights, which can have long-term adverse health effects, including weakening the immune system and increasing the risk of chronic diseases.
4. Stress and mental health: While being part of the otaku community can be a source of happiness and camaraderie, it can also bring high levels of stress, especially when trying to balance your hobby with work or academic responsibilities.
5. Lack of regular medical check-ups: Intense dedication to their hobbies can lead otakus to neglect their health, postponing medical appointments and preventative treatments.

This discussion opened up a space for reflection on the importance of maintaining a balance between hobbies and a healthy lifestyle. While some otaku defend their lifestyle, others have begun taking steps to improve their health, inspired by the concerns expressed in the discussion.

• «My boss is also an otaku and is as fat as a Snorlax. The other day he fainted at work and has had a series of physical problems since then now at 50 years old, so they are probably right».
• «I want to be like that. A life expectancy of 40 years seems more than enough to me.».
• «Once I improved my lifestyle, I started to feel lighter and my stomach started to feel better. It's important to start thinking about a healthy lifestyle in your 40s.».
• «I’m only 32, but I live with the mindset of “if I die tomorrow, I don’t want to regret it.” I don’t mean that in a negative sense. I try to make the most of each day, so even if I die unexpectedly, everything will be fine.».
• «I'm not an advocate of poor diet or chronic insomnia because that alone can shorten your life expectancy. Especially if you don't get regular medical checkups.».
• «I'll be lucky to live to be fifty.».
• «I heard that the original life expectancy of a human being was until the late 30s, and that if you didn't die before the age of 40 or 50, you were considered a long-lived individual.».
• «All my closest companions and friends died before I was fifty. I still have some time, but I can't help but sigh when I think of how much longer I can survive.».

Source: Otakomu