More girls abusing steroids

Nov. 21, 2006

A rising number of young girls are abusing steroids to try to boost athletic performance or physical appearance, says a U.S. endocrinologist.

Girls who take steroids often are unaware or misinformed of associated health dangers, according to Dr. Richard Auchus, an endocrinologist at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

"Steroid abuse by females can lead to growth of facial hair, baldness, menstrual cycle changes and a deeper voice, all of which are usually permanent changes," said Auchus. "These possible changes are on top of an increased risk of heart attacks, stunted growth and behavioral problems."

Girls might abuse steroids in hopes of improving their bodily appearance or gaining a competitive advantage in sports, says Auchus.

Auchus urges females to resist abusing steroids and to:

-- Set realistic goals to help avoid peer pressure.

-- Have a good diet, exercise and enough sleep in maintaining physical appearance.

"It's better to be second-best and honest than best under circumstances that you'll regret later in life," said Auchus.