Celine quits music to support husband

Celine Dion has announced that she is taking an indefinite break from music "in order to focus 100% of her attention" on her family.

The 46-year-old singer, whose husband, Rene Angelil, 72, is recovering from an operation to remove a cancerous tumour in his throat, said on her official website: "I want to devote every ounce of my strength and energy to my husband's healing and, to do so, it's important for me to dedicate this time to him and to our children.

"I also want to apologise to all my fans everywhere, for inconveniencing them, and I thank them so much for their love and support."

Dion, who has released 14 studio albums in French and a further 11 in English, is herself battling an illness that has caused her throat muscles to swell up, preventing her from performing since July 29.

The statement said: "Since Rene's surgery last December to remove a cancerous tumour, it's been a very difficult and stressful time for the couple as they deal with the day-to-day challenges of fighting this disease while trying to juggle a very active show business schedule, and raise their three young children.

"Celine has also been fighting an illness that has caused inflammation in her throat muscles, and has not been able to perform any of her scheduled shows in Las Vegas since her last show on July 29.

"She has still not recovered from this condition."

All Las Vegas shows through to March 2015 have been cancelled.

Dion's scheduled tour of Asia has also been cancelled.

Fans who have already purchased tickets to see Dion in concert will be eligible for a refund.