'It's a very difficult time' Celine Dion puts career on hold to care for cancer-stricken husband

Celine Dion is putting her career on hold to care for her ill husband Rene Angelil.

The 46-year-old singer has canceled her Asia tour, postponed her Las Vegas residency and put any other showbusiness commitments on hold due to Angelil's ongoing health problems.

In December, Angelil, 72, had surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from his throat, which has led to a 'very difficult and stressful time,' Dion said in a statement on Wednesday.

The superstar vocalist is cancelling shows that were slated through March 22, 2015, including a tour of Asia planned for the fall and regular shows at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

Show organisers say Dion also has not recovered from an illness that has inflamed her throat muscles and prevented performances in Las Vegas since July 29.

'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,' said the star.

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

In June, Angelil retired as Dion's manager after 30 years.

The couple met when Dion was still just a teenager. They then embarked on a romantic relationship when she was 19-year-old and Angelil was 45.

The singer briefly retired from performing in 1999 when her husband was battling throat cancer.

The pair currently live in Las Vegas with their three children.