Eric Dane has been actively promoting awareness about ALS since he announced his diagnosis earlier this year.
The actor, known for his roles in Euphoria and Grey’s Anatomy, disclosed in April that at 52, he had been diagnosed with ALS, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” Dane stated in a message to PEOPLE. “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”
He added: “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to set of Euphoria next week. I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.”
Since then, Dane has discussed his ALS diagnosis more openly, mentioning one of his initial symptoms was a weakness in his right hand.
Unfortunately, ALS currently has no cure, but individuals like Dane may receive medications that can decelerate the disease’s progression, along with physical therapy options.
The exact cause of this debilitating illness isn’t well-defined. As of 2025, it impacts about 34,000 individuals in the United States, according to data from the National ALS Registry Dashboard.
Approximately 10 to 15 percent of ALS cases are thought to be hereditary, where a gene mutation is inherited across generations.
This form of ALS is referred to as familial ALS. Conversely, sporadic ALS occurs in individuals without a family history of the disease.
While genetics may contribute to ALS, having a parent diagnosed with the condition does not guarantee that one will develop it.
Another suggestion is that long-term exposure to certain environmental triggers could lead to ALS.
Eva Feldman, a neurology professor at the University of Michigan, discussed this with the BBC, saying: “We suspected the presence of what we term the ALS ‘exposome’, which is the sum of toxic environmental exposures that increase risk.”
Feldman and her team identified potential risks in prolonged exposure to organic chemical pollutants, metals, pesticides, construction dust, and poor air quality, which may elevate the risk of developing ALS.
Neil Thakur, Chief Mission Officer of the ALS Association, mentioned that there’s some indication that exposure to particulates from diesel and aviation fuel, burn pits, pesticides, and aerosols may heighten a person’s risk of ALS.
Occupations at risk for these exposures include farmers and construction workers, according to a 2017 study. However, this study found no direct link between diesel engine exhaust and an increased risk of ALS.
Overall, it is believed that multiple factors contribute to the development of ALS.
The ALS Association notes: “For most people living with ALS, though, there are no clear genetic links to the disease. As our understanding of ALS has evolved, it is now thought that a combination of things, including multiple genetic factors, environmental exposures, habits, and career choice, most likely contributes to the disease developing.”