Steroids - Not just a man's problem anymore!

Steroid abuse, once primarily confined to male athletes and bodybuilders, has grown alarmingly in recent years among the female population

Girls as young as 9 are getting hooked on steroids - not for the athletic boost that they give, but rather to help develop a toned and sculpeted look like their favorite models and movie stars.

Part of the rise in recent years is due to the growth of of women's athletics but a large portion of it is associated with women trying to develop a certain look. Estimates are that between 5 and 7 percent of middle school and high school girls have tried steroids. And as many as two-thirds of the users are takign steroids for weight control rather than athletic ability.

Side effects experienced by teen girls taking steroids include severe acne, a deeper voice, smaller breasts, irregular periods, excess hair on the face and body, paranoia, depression and fits of anger. Long term effects can include cancer, heart attack and stroke.