Selena Gomez takes career break over health issues; Dubai concert cancelled

Selena Gomez has taken a break from music as she battles with the side effects of Lupus, an autoimmune disease that has subsequently caused the singer ‘anxiety, panic attacks and depression’.

Fans in UAE will also be devastated to learn Gomez’s November 18 concert at the Autism Rocks Arena in Dubai has also been cancelled following her announcement.

Organisers 117Live confirmed the concert has been called off, stating: “We regret to announce the cancellation of Selena Gomez Dubai concert due to her growing health concerns.

“We wish her a speedy recover as she takes some time off from touring to spend with her close friends and family.”
Battling Lupus

A year after she revealed her Lupus diagnosis, Gomez on Tuesday released a statement that she’s taking some time off due to complications of the autoimmune disease.

She cites “anxiety, panic attacks and depression” as side effects.

In the statement to People, she says: “As many of you know, around a year ago I revealed that I have Lupus, an illness that can affect people in different ways.

“I've discovered that anxiety, panic attacks and depression can be side effects of lupus, which can present their own challenges.”

The statement continues: “I want to be proactive and focus on maintaining my health and happiness and have decided that the best way forward is to take some time off.

“Thank you to all my fans for your support. You know how special you are to me, but I need to face this head on to ensure I am doing everything possible to be my best.

“I know I am not alone by sharing this, I hope others will be encouraged to address their own issues.”

In a 2015 interview with Billboard, Gomez revealed that she had underwent chemotherapy for Lupus in 2013, during a break in her Stars Dance tour.

She cancelled the Asian and Australian legs of the tour in late 2013 and early 2014.

During the break, rumors emerged of substance abuse.

“I wanted so badly to say, ‘you guys have no idea. I'm in chemotherapy’,” she said in 2015. “I locked myself away until I was confident and comfortable again.”

A source told People that Gomez's current break is “absolutely not related to alcohol or substance abuse,” and that she “hadn't felt like herself” in the past couple of months.

Fans and celebrity friends have sent an outpouring of love and support for the singer on social media.

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