What Are The Risks Of Steroid Use? For Teens
Understanding Steroids: A Complete Guide for Teens
Steroids (short for anabolic–androgenic steroids or AAS) are synthetic hormones that mimic the body’s natural testosterone. They can increase muscle mass, strength and improve athletic performance—making them tempting for anyone looking to "look better" or get ahead in sports.
But they also carry serious risks. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about steroids, especially if you’re a teen.
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1. What Are Steroids?
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Anabolic | Builds muscle mass and tissue. |
| Androgenic | Gives male sex characteristics (e.g., facial hair). |
| AAS (Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids) | Synthetic versions of the hormone testosterone used for performance enhancement or bodybuilding. |
Common Forms
- Oral pills (e.g., methandrostenolone)
- Injectable solutions (e.g., testosterone enanthate)
- Topical gels & creams
2. How Do They Work?
- Enter cells → bind to androgen receptors.
- Activate gene transcription → more protein production.
- Result: increased muscle mass, http://gitea.mintelcn.com decreased body fat, higher endurance.
3. Why Teens Use Them
| Motivation | Typical Users |
|---|---|
| Body image pressure (fit/lean look) | Adolescents, especially females |
| Competitive sports (e.g., bodybuilding, track) | Male athletes |
| Social media influence | Both genders |
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4. Short‑Term Health Effects
- Hormonal changes: acne, hair loss, voice deepening, mood swings.
- Gynecomastia or androgenic alopecia.
- Nutrient deficiencies due to altered appetite.
- Cardiovascular strain (increased heart rate, blood pressure).
5. Long‑Term Health Effects
| Category | Possible Consequence |
|---|---|
| Endocrine | Permanent infertility, testicular atrophy, reduced natural testosterone production. |
| Cardiovascular | Higher risk of hypertension, atherosclerosis, heart failure. |
| Hepatic |
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