Hollywood actor Eric Dane, best known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan in Grey’s Anatomy, passed away at the age of 53 after battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His death came 10 months after he publicly revealed his diagnosis.
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The disease primarily targets motor neurons, which control voluntary muscle movements such as walking, speaking, and breathing.
Early Symptoms
ALS usually begins in one of two ways:
- Limb Onset (about two-thirds of cases)
Symptoms start in the arms or legs and may include:
Weak grip and difficulty with tasks like writing or buttoning clothes
Frequent tripping or stumbling
“Foot drop,” where toes drag while walking
- Bulbar Onset (about one-third of cases)
This affects speech and swallowing first:
Slurred or nasal speech
Difficulty swallowing
Frequent choking while eating or drinking
Other early signs may include muscle twitching (fasciculations), cramps, stiffness, and emotional changes such as sudden laughing or crying episodes unrelated to mood.
Advanced Symptoms
As ALS progresses and more motor neurons die, symptoms worsen:
Muscle wasting (atrophy)
Severe weakness
Breathing difficulties
Eventual paralysis
Despite losing physical function, most patients retain cognitive abilities such as memory and reasoning.
Types of ALS
There are two main forms:
Sporadic ALS: The most common (90–95%), occurring without a known cause
Familial ALS: A rare inherited form (5–10%) linked to genetics
Is There a Cure?
Currently, there is no cure for ALS. However, medications such as Riluzole and Radicava can help slow disease progression and improve quality of life.
ALS in India
ALS is considered rare in India:
Around 4–5 cases per 1 lakh people
1–2 new diagnoses annually per 1 lakh
Average onset occurs earlier than in Western populations — typically between ages 46–47
Can ALS Be Prevented?
There is no proven way to prevent ALS, but managing certain risk factors may help:
Avoid smoking
Limit exposure to heavy metals and pesticides
Prevent head injuries using protective gear
Some research suggests antioxidant-rich diets may support nerve health. For those with a family history, genetic counseling can help assess risks.
Eric Dane’s passing brings renewed attention to ALS — a rare but devastating condition that continues to challenge medical science.