Anabolic Androgenic Steroid Use in Teens: Prevalence, Demographics, and Perception of Effects

• NCJ Number: 237210
• Journal: Journal of Child & Adolescent Substance Abuse Volume: 20 Issue: 4 Dated: September-October 2011 Pages: 358-369
• Author(s): Melissa Lorang; Bryan Callahan; Kevin M. Cummins; Suraj Achar; Sandra A. Brown
• Date Published: September 2011
• Length: 12 pages
• Grant Number(s): AA07033; AA12171; AA013525
• Sponsoring Agency: US Dept of Health and Human Services
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article discusses anabolic androgenic steroids, public understanding,and teen use of the drug.

Abstract

Multiple risks are associated with early use of anabolic androgenic steroids, yet public understanding is limited and teen use not uncommon. The present study surveyed 4,231 high school students to understand prevalence of use, association with athletics and other substance use and expectations of drug effects. While overall rates of steroid use were low (1.4 percent), use was higher in males and those participating in at least one school sport. Half (49 percent) of the high school students believed that steroids improved athletic performance and 38 percent reported that use improves appearance. Recreational drug use and frequency of drug use increased risk for steroid use. (Published Abstract)