Steroids

Teenage Athletes and Steroids

Teenage athletes looking for an edge have turned to the illegal use of steroids, oblivious of the extremely hazardous nature of the substance. Teenagers use steroids under a false pretense, not knowing the ramifications of their decision to use the illegal substance known as steroids. Teenage athletes are not usually aware of the origin of steroids, the good and the bad effects of steroids, why steroids are illegal, and the mental and physical damages associated with steroids.

Some teenage Athletes eat healthy, exercise regularly, and work out daily to build the body they desire. Unfortunately, some give up and turn to anabolic steroids and typically the illegal steroids, because doctors don't prescribe them just because he/she doesn't like their body. Anabolic steroids are any one of several compounds derived from testosterone or prepared synthetically to promote general body growth, to oppose the effects of endogenous estrogen, or to promote masculinizing effects. (Mosby 81)

Anabolic steroids where first discovered in the 30's and in the late 50's researchers needed to find a way to prevent the body from breaking down the testosterone so quickly. Through trial and error, chemists discovered how to alter the testosterone molecule so it would last longer. Soon after research began, Dr. Ziegler and his lab were producing dianabol another term for anabolic steroids. (Steroid info.com) In 1988 Steroids were illegalized in the United States without a prescription with the passing of the Anti-Drug Abuse Act. Since that time, the black market has taken over and now there are no regulations in place that check the potency, consistency, and the quality of the drug.

The effects of steroids can be both Satisfying and appalling. Effects that may be considered good are muscle growth, increased energy, and becoming more athletic. With the good comes the bad. Men usually show external signs of boldness and sometimes severe acne located on the back. Women are also prone to these symptoms as well. Internal damages are more severe, both men and women can develop extremely aggressive behaviors called, roid rage resulting in the loss of friends and sometimes family members. Another symptom is feminization, which only occurs in males. Usually after the discontinuing of steroids, the muscles become soft and turn in to fat deposits sometimes resulting in women like breast. The opposite occurs in women; they may become more masculine while taking steroids. Other side effects may include, increased risk of heart disease, kidney and liver problems, headaches, stomachaches, impotence, and high blood pressure all results from misusing the drug.

Rapid muscle gain, mood swings, change in appetite, heightened aggressiveness, and unusually fast recovery from sports injury are signs of steroid use. Teenagers that may be using steroids may refer to them by using slang like A's, anabols, gym candy, oxys, GHB, pumpers, arnies, stackers, weight trainers. (ASK)

Given all the negative effects associated with performance-enhancing drugs, it seems strange that healthy teenage athletes would want to risk their health. Some teenage athletes don't seem to be concerned about the risk and take steroids regardless. The Mayo Clinic did a study on the use of steroids among teenage athletes. Their studies showed an increase primarily among weightlifters and gymnasts. Studies suggest that 5 percent to 11 percent of high-school boys and 0.5 percent to 2.5 percent of high-school girls have tried anabolic steroids. (www.Mayoclinic.com)

The dangers of steroids are unknown to most people who take them.