special subjects
Anabolic Steroids
Prevention of Anabolic Steroid Use
Physicians caring for adolescents and young adults should be alert to the signs of steroid abuse and teach patients about its risks. Education about anabolic steroids should start by the beginning of middle school. Use of programs that teach alternative, healthy ways to increase muscle size and improve performance through good nutrition and weight training techniques may help. Presenting both risks and benefits of anabolic steroid use seems to be a more effective way to educate adolescents about the negative effects of illicit steroid use. 