Nick Carter Bares His Chest, Opens Up About Health Struggles

Currently weighing in at 167 lbs. after being diagnosed with a potentially fatal heart condition eight months ago, Nick Carter says his life is "awesome".

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Bulking up after being diagnosed with a potentially fatal heart condition eight months ago, Nick Carter has no hesitation to shed his clothes off and bare his chest for this week's issue of People. To the weekly publication he opens up about his health struggles after 10 years of battling with alcohol and drugs.

Nick was touring with his band Backstreet Boys in Europe last spring, when he suddenly experienced mild chest discomfort and fatigue. Undergoing medical tests, he was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, which is described as a weakening of the heart muscle which can require a transplant or lead to sudden death.

The diagnosis then became Nick's turning point, leading him to live a healthier lifestyle. "I don't want to die," he said. "I don't want to be that person people read about and think, 'That's sad that he couldn't stop it and killed himself.'" From that time on, "I'm trying to make myself better. But I don't regret anything that I've gone through, because it makes me who I am." Currently weighing in at 167 lbs. and in great health, Nick describes his life as "awesome."

This week's issue of People, to which Nick opens up about his old habit of partying and clubbing, his girlfriend, and his home in Nashville, will go on sale on Friday, February 6.

Nick Carter has, on January 26, held an early bash at the Key Club in Hollywood to mark his 29th birthday. He was joined by fellow Backstreet Boys band members Howie Dorough and A.J. McLean during the party. He actually turned 29 years old on January 28.

© AceShowbiz.com

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