June 23, 2008 10:58

Amy Winehouse diagnosed with lung disease

Doctors give verdict on stricken singer

Photo Gallery: Amy Winehouse
Photo: Danny North

Amy Winehouse has been diagnosed as suffering from the lung disease emphysema.

Her father, Mitch Winehouse, told the Sunday Mirror that doctors have warned his daughter that if she continues to smoke drugs she will die.

The condition is a progressive lung condition that leaves those suffering from it struggling for breath. It is caused after damage to the lung structure is caused – usually after activities such as smoking.

"She's got emphysema – it's in its early stages, but had it gone on for another month they painted a very vivid picture of her sitting there like an old person with a mask on her face struggling to breathe," Mitch Winehouse said.

"With smoking the crack cocaine and the cigarettes her lungs are all gunked up," he continued. "There are nodules around the chest and dark marks. She's got 70 per cent lung capacity."

The singer's father went on to condemn Pete Doherty, who his daughter has recently been hanging out with. "I don't want her hanging out with her mates like Pete Doherty," he said. "What hope does she have if people are taking drugs around her?"