Carrie Ann Inaba Talks About Her Challenges With Sjögren’s Disease

Carrie Ann Inaba, the beloved 'Dancing with the Stars' judge, has revealed the full extent of her battle with Sjögren's disease—a chronic autoimmune condition that many Americans still know little about. Her candid disclosure is shining a spotlight on the debilitating challenges faced by millions living with this often-misunderstood illness.

In a recent interview with Forbes, Inaba detailed the daily hurdles she navigates due to Sjögren's disease, an autoimmune disorder that primarily attacks the body's moisture-producing glands. As a longtime fixture on ABC's 'Dancing with the Stars' and former co-host of 'The Talk,' Inaba brings an unusual platform to a disease that typically struggles for public attention. Her decision to speak out now, in July 2026, comes as patient advocacy groups push for greater research funding and earlier diagnosis.

Sjögren's disease affects an estimated 4 million Americans, with women making up roughly 90% of cases. Yet it remains one of the most frequently misdiagnosed autoimmune conditions. Symptoms go far beyond dry eyes and dry mouth—the hallmark signs—to include debilitating fatigue, joint pain, and even organ involvement. Inaba has been open about her health struggles over the years, including cervical spine surgery and autoimmune issues, but this is the first time she has focused specifically on the extreme fatigue and pain that Sjögren's disease challenges bring to her everyday life.

In the Forbes interview, Inaba described how the disease interferes with her demanding schedule on 'Dancing with the Stars,' where she must stay alert and energetic for hours of filming. She emphasized that the chronic exhaustion is often the hardest symptom to manage, forcing her to pace herself and prioritize rest. While she did not reveal specific treatments, experts note that current management involves immunosuppressants, lifestyle modifications, and symptom-specific therapies. The exact cause of Sjögren's disease remains unknown, though genetic and environmental triggers are believed to play a role.

The broader implications of Inaba's disclosure are significant. Celebrity health revelations historically drive public awareness and research funding—as seen with Angelina Jolie and breast cancer, or Michael J. Fox and Parkinson's disease. By attaching a recognizable face to Sjögren's disease, Inaba is helping to normalize conversations about chronic illness and invisible disabilities. Advocacy groups like the Sjögren's Foundation report spikes in website traffic and donation interest whenever a public figure speaks out, suggesting her story could accelerate momentum for new clinical trials and diagnostic tools.

Looking ahead, Inaba has pledged to continue using her voice to support Sjögren's research and patient communities. The next milestones to watch include the Sjögren's Foundation's annual advocacy day on Capitol Hill, scheduled for August 2026, and potential FDA decisions on new therapies currently in late-stage trials. For now, Inaba's message is clear: Sjögren's disease challenges are real, but awareness and understanding can change lives.