Bruce Willis has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, it has been confirmed.
The 67 year old actor has been diagnosed with the illness, having been previously diagnosed with aphasia last March, forcing him to quit acting, after experiencing difficulties with language and speech.
According to the NHS, FTD leads to changes in personality, language, behaviour, and movement.
This illness affects the front and sides of the brain, like other forms of dementia.
“a more specific diagnosis”
This latest news was confirmed via a statement signed by Willis’ wife Emma Harding, ex wife Demi Moore, along with children Scout, Mabel, Rumer, Tallulah, and Evelyn.
In a statement shared via Moore’s Instagram account, the family have revealed they have a “more clear diagnosis”.
“Since we announced Bruce’s diagnosis of aphasia in spring 2022, Bruce’s condition has progressed and we now have a more specific diagnosis: frontotemporal dementia (known as FTD)”, they said.
“Unfortunately, challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces. While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis”.
“a cruel disease”
Elsewhere, the family released a further statement.
“FTD is a cruel disease that many of us have never heard of and can strike anyone. For people under 60, FTD is the most common form of dementia, and because getting the diagnosis can take years, FTD is likely much more prevalent than we know”.
“Today there are no treatments for the disease, a reality that we hope can change in the years ahead. As Bruce’s condition advances, we hope that any media attention can be focused on shining a light on this disease that needs far more awareness and research”.
“Bruce always believed in using his voice in the world to help others, and to raise awareness about important issues both publicly and privately. We know in our hearts that – if he could today — he would want to respond by bringing global attention and a connectedness with those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it impacts so many individuals and their families”.
