Grey's Anatomy Actor Eric Dane Diagnosed With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Here's All About The Condition (Image Credits: Instagram)
Actor Eric Dane, best known for his role as Dr Mark Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy and more recently as Cal Jacobs on HBO’s Euphoria, has recently disclosed that he has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive and currently incurable neurological condition.
“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” the 52-year-old actor said in a media interaction with PEOPLE magazine. “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.” Dane also expressed hope and determination, adding, “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to the set of Euphoria next week.” The third season of the hit series is scheduled to begin production on April 14.
Dane is married to actress Rebecca Gayheart, and the couple are parents to two daughters — Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13. In his statement, Dane respectfully asked for privacy for himself and his family during this time.
What is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a degenerative neurological disorder that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Over time, these neurons break down and die, resulting in the progressive loss of voluntary muscle control. This affects a person’s ability to walk, speak, swallow, and eventually breathe.
While there is currently no known cure for ALS, ongoing research aims to better understand the disease’s causes and develop potential treatments.
Who Is Most at Risk?
ALS typically occurs between the ages of 40 and 70, with the average age of diagnosis being around 55. However, it can also develop in younger individuals, even in their 20s or 30s. Men are slightly more likely to develop ALS than women.
According to the ALS Association, several risk factors may play a role in the development of ALS. These include:
Genetics: About 5–10 per cent of ALS cases are inherited.
As of 2018, the National ALS Registry reported an estimated 21,655 cases of ALS in the United States. That number is expected to rise significantly, with projections suggesting as many as 36,300 cases by 2030.
Early Signs and Symptoms
ALS can be challenging to diagnose early because symptoms may be subtle and easily mistaken for other conditions. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the most common initial symptoms include:
Muscle twitching (fasciculations) and cramps.
While the progression of ALS varies from person to person, the disease ultimately leads to the loss of the ability to perform basic bodily functions. Life expectancy after diagnosis typically ranges from two to five years, although some people live significantly longer.
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