Billy Joel’s representatives revealed this week that the iconic musician has been diagnosed with a rare brain disorder known as Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), which affects only 0.2 percent of individuals in their 70s.
The “We Didn’t Start the Fire” singer had 17 concerts planned for 2025 and 2026. Unfortunately, due to this unexpected diagnosis, the 76-year-old has decided to cancel all of them.
NPH is a condition that impacts an estimated 700,000 Americans, with the typical age of onset being 70 years. While it affects only a small fraction, 0.2 percent, of adults aged 70 to 80, the prevalence increases to about 5.9 percent in those over 80, as per information from the Cleveland Clinic.
It is often believed that many cases go either misdiagnosed or undiagnosed altogether.
According to healthcare professionals, NPH symptoms may manifest as difficulty in lifting feet, taking shorter and unsteady steps, and walking with uncertainty, almost as if one has forgotten the process.
Additional symptoms can include cognitive and physical slowing, memory issues, changes in emotional behavior, and urinary incontinence.
The Cleveland Clinic explains: “Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a brain condition that happens when fluid buildup inside or around your brain disrupts your brain function. That can affect several brain-related abilities, including thinking and concentrating, memory, movement and more. The symptoms of NPH look very much like those of dementia, but NPH is sometimes reversible.”
The causes of NPH fall into two categories. The primary form, known as idiopathic NPH, occurs for reasons that remain unknown. It is believed to relate to age-associated changes in the body’s reabsorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Additionally, conditions like Alzheimer’s and dementia may also contribute to it.
The secondary form of NPH can arise from various health issues, such as brain aneurysms, tumors, infections, or strokes, all of which can lead to the condition.
On Friday (May 23), Joel’s team took to Instagram to inform fans of the situation: “Billy Joel has announced that he will be cancelling all scheduled concerts following a recent diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance. Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period. Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health. He is grateful for the support from fans during this time and looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage.”
Joel personally added: “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience and thank you for understanding.”