What are steroids? Anabolic androgenic steroids are synthetic derivatives of the male hormone testosterone that are taken to build muscle, enhance performance, and improve appearance. The drug's anabolic or "muscle-building" effects help the body retain protein, a necessary building block for the growth of muscles, bones, and skin. The androgenic or "masculinizing" effects cause the development of a deep voice, facial and body hair, muscle mass, and aggressiveness. Unfortunately, steroid abusers risk a variety of unwanted side effects, some of which are irreversible. Another significant danger includes HIV infection if needles are shared.

Can steroids improve athletic performance?

Although user's report increases in muscle bulk, strength, and endurance, steroids cannot improve agility, athletic skill, and cardiovascular capacity - factors that also affect performance. In addition, there is no conclusive evidence that steroid use decreases recovery time from injuries. In fact, some research asserts that steroid abuse hampers the normal process of wound healing.

Are adolescents at-risk? Teenage and young adult males that participate in athletics are at particular risk for abusing steroids because they believe that steroids can help them enhance their physical performance and their appearance. Ironically, teens are at particular risk of harming their health and permanently changing their appearance in ways they do not expect - acne, stunted growth, female characteristics (in boys), and male characteristics (in girls).

What can parents do? The good news is that youth can be taught to resist social pressures to try drugs, like steroids. Fortunately, public education programs and prevention programs that build resiliency factors and self-esteem in youth can prevent steroid use and experimentation. Parents can help by becoming informed about steroids and by talking to their children about steroid use.

Who should I contact if someone close to me has a problem with steroids?

Contact the Texas Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse's toll-free hotline at (800) 832-9623 or your local Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse for referral assistance. You may also contact your family physician, hospital, or yellow pages for other intervention and treatment options.

This article is provided by the Kids Sports Network and is condensed from an article by:

Texas Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse
PO Box 80529
Austin, TX 78708-0529
(512) 349-6600 (800) 832-9623

For more information about kid's sports in and around San Antonio, contact the Kids Sports Network (210) 654-4707 or visit their web site www.ksnusa.org