A close friend confirmed that Whitney Houston was undergoing treatment.

She said Ms Houston was in an out-patient programme for drug and alcohol treatment, a voluntary measure and part of her “long-standing” recovery process.

The 47-year-old has battled drug abuse in the past.

She released a comeback album in 2009, but her 2010 tour was troubled. Houston cancelled some dates due to illness and received negative reviews from fans who were disappointed in the quality of her voice and performance.

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