Dr Amir Khan has praised Bruce Willis, 67, and the Hollywood actor's family for raising awareness of a rare form of dementia.
Appearing on Good Morning Britain earlier today, the medical professional explained how the Willis family's social media statement on Thursday night will encourage others suffering to talk about the debilitating condition and even possibly seek a diagnosis from their GP.
Die Hard star Bruce has been on a break from acting since March last year when his family announced he was struggling, with the actor's daughters and ex-wife Demi Moore now revealing the Hollywood legend has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia.
"Our family wanted to start by expressing our deepest gratitude for the incredible outpouring of love, support and wonderful stories we have all received since sharing Bruce’s original diagnosis," Bruce's daughter Rumer wrote on Instagram on Thursday.
She added: "In the spirit of that, we wanted to give you an update about our beloved husband, father and friend since we now have a deeper understanding of what he is experiencing.
"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).
"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."
The family's statement continued on The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration's website, explaining that "FTD is a cruel disease that many of us have never heard of and can strike anyone".
Discussing the statement on Good Morning Britain earlier today, Dr Amir explained that although "it will be hard for Bruce's family to talk about it", it is important "to shine a light on this condition like they have."
He added: "[Their statement] will help many people who are suffering from the condition and their families but also help people get their loved one diagnosed with this.
"So talking about these rarer conditions is really important."
Bruce's family went into further detail about the Pulp Fiction actor's experience with the condition with a lengthy statement The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration's website.
"Today there are no treatments for the disease, a reality that we hope can change in the years ahead," the official statement adds. "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."
They added: "Bruce has always found joy in life – and has helped everyone he knows to do the same. It has meant the world to see that sense of care echoed back to him and to all of us."
*Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV from 6am
