The 40-year-old told reporters outside his church Renewal Centre in Serangoon that he was diagnosed with spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy, or Kennedy's disease.

He had earlier told the congregation about his disease, which strikes one in 40,000 people and is incurable.

Doctors have told him that in the next seven to 15 years, he will face 'physical impairment', but the disease does not affect life expectancy.

Mr Chew, who is married with two daughters, aged four and six, said that his legs have become weaker but he is not taking painkillers or medication for the condition.

He said he is trying to live a normal life but has been advised by doctors not to engage in strenuous activities such as jogging.

Read the full story in Saturday's edition of The Straits Times.