Steroids: Teens Juicing Up

Most parents don't suspect a thing. But teens are getting their hands on it. It's widely available-- if you know where to get it. Steroids.

Given that many of our sports heroes have been accused of (or have admitted to) using steroids to bulk up, slim down, and get that godly look and strength, is it really surprising that teens are interested in doing the same things? Our heroes help us all to see what's possible and the tools they use to seize the day. For teens who want to be just like their sports heroes, steroids can look like an easy answer.

What's wrong with using steroids?

Anabolic steroids, in particular, help build muscle and bone mass. The long term effects of unprescribed intake of anabolic steroids include urinary problems, abrupt and extreme mood swings, trembling, damage to the heart and blood vessels due to blood pressure and even death. In men, steroids can cause symptoms such as breast development, testicular shrinkage and erectile dysfunction. Women taking steroids can experience facial hair growth, clitoris enlargement, menstrual cycle changes and even the development of many masculine characteristics.

What are the danger signs?

- Mood swings (can be very extreme)

- Urinary problems

- Severe acne

- Abrupt increase in muscle mass

- Yellowish skin

- Needle marks in muscle groups

- Syringes in child's belongings

- Sudden deepening of voice (females)

- Facial hair growth (females)

What about the girls?

Girls are reporting the use of some form of anabolic steroids in an attempt to get an edge on the playing field, slim down and tone up. Some girls, as young as 9 years old, have found that steroids can help them to look more like the Hollywood stars and models they admire. Overall, up to about 5 percent of high school girls and 7 percent of middle-school girls admit trying anabolic steroids at least once, with use of rising steadily since 1991. These girls are more likely to have eating disorders and use other risky methods to get thin.

What about the boys?

About 5% of teen boys have admitted to using steroids. As the men on Gladiators, Wrestlemania, and Ultimate Fighter get bigger, boys may also have a desire to bulk up. But you might be surprised to know that it's not only about getting stronger. It's also about body image—and looking more attractive—even in elementary and middle school!

Boys as young as 10, and high school students who do not play team sports, are also bulking up with steroids because they want to look good.

Some high schools are working to combat steroid use by banning the substance and offering a consequence: If a student is caught using performance-enhancing drugs, they can be banned from competing for a whole year. The problem is, no drug testing is required. Parents still need to keep their eyes open.

How can I monitor my teen?

--Look for any obvious weight gains in your children, particularly, gains in muscle mass over a short period of time.

--Is there any sign of depression? Hormonal imbalance can cause mood swings and erratic behavior.

--Is there any apparent hair loss with your child? Premature balding and breast development in boys and facial hair development in females are possible side effects of steroid use.

Intervention:

Let the experts work If you're sure that the problem exists, let your children know that you only want what's best for them' and then, introduce an expert. Trained doctors are the best people to address the problem.

Steroids Hotline:

1-800-STEROIDS

This hotline provides information on drugs, how to know if someone you know is using steroids and where to get help.