NCJ Number
211635
Date Published
March 2004
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This guide was developed to provide a better understanding of steroids and related substance abuse and the dangers to one’s health with the illegal use of steroids.
Abstract
Because of its increased abuse over the years, steroids have become a prevalent and alarming societal problem. The problem is widespread and includes school-age children, athletes, fitness “buffs,” business professionals, etc. It is estimated that more than a half million 8th and 10th grade students are now using these dangerous drugs. In addition, statistics show that 1,084,000 Americans said that they had used anabolic steroids. The purpose of this guide is to help provide a better understanding of why steroids are being abused, and how athletes and others can be better educated about the dangers of these drugs. The guide discusses the dangerous medical effects of illegal use of steroids on health. The hope is that with a better understanding there will be a greater potential in reducing the abuse of anabolic steroids and steroid related products. Preventive measures are necessary to protect athletes, as well as other users. This guide attempts to answer the basic questions related to steroid abuse: what, why, where, and how. In addition, it discusses the physical and psychological dangers, the laws and penalties for anabolic steroid abuse, common types of steroids abused, steroid alternatives, are steroids addictive, how widespread is the problem, and how anabolic steroid abuse can be prevented. Appendixes A and B