Anabolic steroid use among adolescents: a review of prevalence, adverse effects and prevention

Most studies of anabolic-androgenic steroid (AS) use among adolescents come from the USA and Canada, suggesting that substantial numbers may be taking them. Information from the UK is lacking although some studies suggest that one in three users start their use in their teen years. The major reasons for taking AS among young people involve improved sports performance and appearance. The risks of their use are much the same for adolescents as for adults, apart from the possibility of growth arrest. As there are no studies on the effects of self-administering AS use among adolescents, little is known about the delayed effects and their severity. Lack of knowledge or denial of adverse effects of AS appears to be common in this group. Attitudes and risk-taking behaviour can be used to predict AS use among adolescents, and some advocate that prevention programmes should focus on alternatives to AS and education at an early age.