Israeli Singer Yehuda Poliker Reveals Struggle With Severe Lung Disease

Yehuda Poliker, a renowned Israeli singer, has publicly disclosed his battle with pulmonary fibrosis, a serious lung condition that scars lung tissue and impairs breathing. In an interview with Channel 12 News, Poliker explained that the disease has significantly affected his daily life, causing difficulty in walking and breathing after just a few steps. He revealed that he was diagnosed over a year ago and now requires oxygen therapy at night and medication to slow the disease's progression.

Poliker attributes the development of his illness to years of smoking, exposure to chemicals while working in a hair salon, and living near an industrial area in Haifa. Despite these challenges, he remains committed to performing. He shared that although he sometimes fears going on stage, once he starts playing guitar and singing, he forgets his difficulties. Poliker also mentioned that while thoughts of retirement cross his mind, music continues to give him strength and a sense of identity, saying, "Without singing, playing, and being on stage, I would no longer be the same."

His openness sheds light on the personal impact of pulmonary fibrosis and highlights his determination to continue his artistic career despite health setbacks.