Adam Socha/FGCU/Anabolic Steroids

Anabolic Steroids are synthetic substances that are related to the male sex hormones. They increase the growth of skeletal muscle and the development of male sexual characteristics, along with other effects. (National Institute on Drug Abuse Community Drug Alert Bulletin - Anabolic Steroids (2000). Over the past three decades the level of anabolic steroid use has increased significantly. The use of anabolic steroids is most commonly popular with elite competitive athletes. But there is emerging evidence of use for the enhancement of body image among the fitness community, occupational groups, and the homosexual community. (Beel, A., Maycock, B., & McLean, N. (1998). In the United States it is estimated that there are more than 1 million current or former anabolic steroid users, while in Canada it is estimated that 83,000 young people aged 11-18 years have used anabolic steroids at least once in the past year.  (Beel, A., Maycock, B., & McLean, N. (1998). In 1989 it was estimated that there were 15,000 users in Australia, while the 1995 national household drug survey indicated that 75,000 people has used anabolic steroids for non-medical reasons. (Beel, A., Maycock, B., & McLean, N. (1998). Evidence concludes that self-reported levels of anabolic steroids use may underestimate actual rates of usage. (Beel, A., Maycock, B., & McLean, N. (1998). In a study of competitive athletes in US colleges, the projected rate of use was at least three times larger than self-reported levels. (Beel, A., Maycock, B., & McLean, N. (1998).

It is evidential that the use of anabolic steroids is widespread. Athletes, bodybuilders, and teenagers are using anabolic steroids to get bigger and stronger. Unfortunately, there are many unwanted side effects from steroids. Some of the side effects associated with the use of Anabolic Steroids include acne, decreased testicle size, stunted growth, depression, manic episodes, and aggression. As a result, some steroid users become violent and therefore are more likely to committ crimes. As to come up with a solution to the steroid problem I believe people need to become more educated and aware of the potential dangers of using Anabolic Steroids. People should read about all the possible side effects associated with steroid use and think twice before using them.

This entry was posted on 16. November 2009 at 01:40 and is filed under Social Problems. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site.