One Piece manga might be going on break following Eiichiro Oda health concerns

Amidst concerns and circulating rumours, it seems that the One Piece manga might be heading for a substantial hiatus following the release of Chapter 1101 on December 10, 2023. The speculations initially centered around worries about Eiichiro Oda's health, especially after he reportedly struggled to complete the script for Chapter 1098 a few weeks prior. 

What

This rare occurrence raised concerns among fans, who are well aware of the toll that the demanding Japanese work culture takes on mangaka, as evidenced by the health struggles of creators like Yoshihiro Togashi and Kentaro Miura, as well as the heavy toll Jujutsu Kaisen has been taking on MAPPA animators as of late.

• Oda, who reportedly sends his blood pressure readings to his doctor daily, has been facing health challenges due to the strenuous demands of his job. 
• The recent report reveals that he battles chronic sleep deprivation, surviving on only three hours of sleep per day, and deals with health issues such as diabetes and gout. 

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Despite these challenges, Oda maintains a seemingly cavalier attitude, asserting that an ideal blood pressure can't universally apply to everyone.

The concerns surrounding Oda's health coincide with a broader issue affecting the anime industry as a whole. 

Survey results

A recent health survey conducted by the Japanese Animation Creators Association sheds light on the mental state of anime creators, revealing that 17% of those surveyed have experienced or may have experienced depression. 

• The demanding work schedules and harsh working conditions in the industry have contributed to physical and mental fatigue, with a significant number of individuals reporting feeling both mentally and physically exhausted.

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The broader context of the manga industry's health challenges becomes even more pronounced when considering the upcoming hiatus. While initial rumors hinted at Oda's health concerns as the primary reason, it appears that logistical factors related to the holiday season and Jump Festa 2024 may be the driving force behind the break. Other Shonen Jump series are also expected to experience a temporary hiatus due to these factors.

The Japanese Animation Creators Association's survey underscores the need for industry-wide improvements to working conditions. The prevalence of health issues among animators emphasizes the urgency of addressing the challenges faced by those in the industry.

The hope among fans is that Oda and other creators won't have to endure the same intense burnout that has negatively impacted the health of their peers. As the manga industry takes a momentary pause, it prompts reflection on the well-being of its creators and the imperative for systemic changes to create a healthier and more sustainable work environment.