Dubai: French actor and theatre director Arnaud Denis died by euthanasia in Belgium at the age of 43, after years of severe health complications that he associated with a hernia implant. His lawyer, Philippe Courtois, confirmed the death to AFP.

Denis underwent surgery for a right groin hernia on July 17, 2023, during which a polypropylene mesh was implanted. He later reported severe and persistent health problems and underwent surgery in the United States in April 2024 to have the implant removed.

According to reports, Denis was subsequently diagnosed with myalgic encephalomyelitis and attributed his deteriorating condition to an inflammatory reaction linked to the implant. His claims about the cause of his illness were part of his public campaign over complications he said were associated with hernia implants.

Denis had filed a complaint with the Paris public prosecutor's office in January, alleging involuntary injuries. The complaint was dismissed at the end of August, according to Euronews.

As his condition worsened, Denis became an advocate for other patients who reported complications following hernia implant procedures. He founded the group French Victims of Hernia Prostheses, which brought together people sharing similar experiences. French health authorities had also strengthened monitoring of hernia implants in 2025 following reports of adverse effects.

In a final Facebook message before his death, Denis wrote about his decision to undergo euthanasia and said he had endured years of suffering. His lawyer said the decision was made after consultations with three doctors in Namur, Belgium. Courtois said Denis' death followed months of intense pain.

Denis had spoken publicly about his deteriorating health earlier this year, saying that doctors had little more to offer him. He had begun pursuing euthanasia in Belgium after concluding that his condition was no longer improving.

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