Teenagers and Steroids Use

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Recommended: The effects of Steroid abuse on the human body

Many American teenagers would do just about anything, including using steroids, to become bigger, stronger, and faster. "They are playing a risky game of chemical roulette and their credo: Die young, die strong" (Schrof, 55). And that is exactly what they are doing; teenage boys are literally dying to look like the bodybuilders and sports heroes on T.V. Steroids are very dangerous drugs and should have no place in the lives of America's youth.

Most steroids that are used today are anabolic steroids - or more precisely, anabolic/androgenic steroids. They belong to a group known as ergogenic, or so-called "performance-enhancing" drugs ("Anabolic Steroids...," 2). Anabolic steroids are synthetic compounds that mimic testosterone. Testosterone is a natural hormone found in humans, largely in males, that is responsible for muscle development. Anabolic steroid is the term for a substance that builds up body tissue by promoting the growth of muscle tissue (Nardo, 19). The main effect of steroids on muscles is to reduce fatigue and increase the amount of work they can do before tiring (Pesmen, 97). Steroids can be natural or artificial, and there are dozens of different versions of the drug.

Steroids have two basic uses: medical and performance-enhancing. The use of steroids in the medical profession can help many people. Anabolic steroids were originally developed to help cancer patients and victims of starvation. Steroids are now used to aid a variety of problems. They are used to treat skin ailments, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, allergies, and various eye diseases. They have also been effective in healing injuries as well as treating malnutrition, problems with bones, and some blood disorders. Sometimes, doctors use steroids to offset the harsh effects of cancer radiation treatments (Nardo, 20). When used properly and under direct medical supervision, steroids can benefit many sick and suffering people.

Steroids, also known as "roids," "gas," or "juice," can be taken two ways, whether used legally or illegally. Anabolic steroids are usually taken in pill form ("Anabolic Steroids...," 5). Users take them like they would any other pill. Steroids can also be injected. Research shows that the injectible variety may pose less risk of damage to the liver and other organs (Pesmen, 97). Inserting the one and a half inch needles into their thighs or buttocks leaves many teens squeamish, and they often rely on a trusted friend to do the job (Schrof, 61).

One big risk of using needles is the possibility of contracting AIDS.

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