Anabolic Steroid Abuse
Information taken from The National Institute on Drug Abuse
Anabolic-androgenic steroids are man-made substances related to male sex hormones. "Anabolic" refers to muscle-building, and "androgenic" refers to increased masculine characteristics. These drugs are available legally only by prescription. Some athletes abuse anabolic steroids to enhance athletic performance and improve physical appearance. Anabolic steroids are taken orally or injected into the body.
Abuse of anabolic steroids can lead to serious health problems, some of which are irreversible. Major side effects can include liver tumors and cancer, jaundice, high blood pressure, kidney tumors, severe acne and trembling. In males, side effects may include shrinking of the testicles, impotence, baldness and breast development. In females, side effects may include growth of facial hair, menstrual changes and deepened voice.
In teenagers, growth may be halted prematurely and permanently.
Anabolic steroid abuse is increasing among adolescents. In the National Institute on Drug Abuse’s "Monitoring the Future Study", 3.4% of high school seniors reported using steroids at least once. Studies show that, over time, anabolic steroids can indeed take a heavy toll on a person’s health.