"Anabolic steroids were developed in the late 1930s primarily to treat hypogonadism, a condition in which the testes do not produce sufficient testosterone for normal body growth, development and sexual functioning" (www.steroidabuse.org). They were also "used to restore body weight in concentration camps" during World War II (Grolier Encyclopedia). The drugs were used for medical reasons only, such as "delayed puberty, some types of impotence, and wasting the body caused by HIV or other diseases" (www.steroidabuse.org). After research, scientists discovered that the skeletal muscles in laboratory rats increased when treated with anabolic steroids. With this discovery, body builders and athletes used the drugs to increase their performances in their events. As a result, the widespread usage begins throughout the United States.

"Anabolic Steroids is the familiar n

In the musculoskeletal system, the side effects could be short stature and tendon rupture. The cardiovascular system can include heart attacks and the enlargement of the heart's left ventricle. The chance for liver cancer, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis can increase through steroid abuse. There are also psychiatric affects such as homicidal rage, mania, and delusions.

Treatment for steroid abuse is possible. The most constructive way is supportive therapy. If symptoms are severe, hospitalization and medication is needed. When being treated for steroid abuse, the hormonal system is in need of being restored. Some medications target specific symptoms such as depression, headaches, and muscle pain (www.steroidabuse.org).

Steroid abuse is on the rise in today's United States. Treatments and therapy are available to help with possible addiction. The side effects are not healthy and the consequences can be serious. Before one begins to use steroids, he or she should be familiar with the way the drug works and what it can do to the body.

Steroid abuse among teenagers is on the ride. In 1999, the Monitoring the Future study sponsored by the NIDA estimated that 2.7 percent of eighth and tenth graders and 2.9 percent of twelfth graders had taken steroids at least on

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