The Celebrity Truth

Singer Mary J. Blige has denied reports that she has ever taken performance-enchancing steroids, after her name showed up in a New-York state based investigation into obtaining steroids and human growth hormones.

Entertainers including Blige and rapper 50 Cent are among thousands of people whose names are turning up in the investigation, according to New York state newspaper, the Albany Times Union.

The newspaper cited records it had obtained and information from witnesses on Long Island, who are reportedly co-operating with the investigation.

A spokeswoman for Blige said, "Mary J. Blige has never taken any performance-enhancing illegal steroids", and added that Blige had not taken any anti-ageing steroids either.

The investigation, which is being conducted by the Albany County district attorney, P. David Soares, also found evidence that other possible recipients included musicians Wyclef Jean and Timbaland, and author, actor and producer Tyler Perry.

None of the celebrities are accused of violating the law; instead, the investigation is focusing on stopping the flow of the drugs, by dealing with doctors who illegally prescribe them, and anti-ageing clinics, pharmacies and other distributors that supply the drugs.

For entertainers, the appeal of the drugs is allegedly their reputed, but unproven, anti-ageing effects.

Medical experts say that the drugs have legitimate uses for certain conditions, such as promoting stunted growth in children, however, misuse of the drugs can be harmful.

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Photo courtesy of Universal.

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