Adolescent steroid use can stunt growth

09/14/06

Steroid use among adolescents can result in permanently stunted stature, says an official of the Indiana Prevention Resource Center at Indiana University.

The pressure to perform on the sports field can lead some adolescents to try anabolic steroids, which provide enhanced energy for movement and augment the production of muscle-building proteins; but while the muscles may grow larger, the skeletal structure can halt development in response to steroid use, according Ruth Gassman, executive director of the Indiana Prevention Resource Center.

"Premature closure of the epiphysis, the growing end of the long bones, is seen among adolescents and school age children who abuse steroids," Gassman said.

Other steroid side effects include: severe acne, hostility, aggressiveness and nervousness, as well as breast growth among males and increased body hair among females. Long-term effects can include cardiovascular disease, hypertension and stroke.

"According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, prevention programs that focus on a team approach to addressing proper exercise, nutrition and the harmful effects of steroids can lead to avoidance of these drugs and encourage a realistic approach to athletic goals," said Gassman.