Top U.S. newswoman Elizabeth Vargas has entered a rehab facility to battle alcoholism.

The former World News Tonight presenter-turned-20/20 co-anchor checked into treatment at the end of last month (Oct13), according to the New York Daily News.

A statement from the revered Tv personality reads: "I realized I was becoming increasingly dependent on alcohol. And I feel fortunate to have recognized it for the problem it was becoming... Like so many others, I will deal with this challenge one day at a time."

Vargas, who is married to singer/songwriter Marc Cohn, will return to Friday night news show 20/20 when she has completed her time in rehab.