Pumping up the risks: The Worrying Trend of Steroid Hormone Use in Bodybuilding

The pursuit of physical perfection has become an obsession for many, particularly in the world of bodybuilding. The pressure to achieve a chiselled physique has led to a worrying trend; the increasing use of steroid hormones.

Steroids are synthetic hormones that can boost the body’s ability to make muscle and prevent muscle breakdown. Steroid hormones, such as testosterone and human growth hormone, are naturally occurring substances that regulate various bodily functions. However, when used illicitly, these hormones can enhance muscle mass, strength and endurance. The temptation to use steroid hormones is strong, especially among young bodybuilders seeking to accelerate their progress.

Sports players take steroids in the hopes that they will help them to run faster, hit farther, lift heavier weights, jump higher or have more endurance. In countries like, US, it is against the law to use anabolic steroids without a prescription. It is a controlled substance because of its suspected health risks and available only by prescription. Some people cycle their steroid doses. This means they take multiple doses of steroids over a period of time, stop for a period and then start up again. “Stacking” means taking two or more different steroids.

Dangers of Steroid Hormone Abuse

The use of steroid hormones without medical supervision can have devastating consequences. Some of the risks associated with steroid hormone abuse include:

1. Liver Damage:Steroid hormones can cause liver damage, leading to conditions such as jaundice and liver failure.
2. Cardiovascular Problems:Steroid hormone abuse can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes and high blood pressure.
3. Mental Health Issues:The use of steroid hormones can lead to anxiety, depression and mood swings.
4. Reproductive Problems:Steroid hormone abuse can disrupt reproductive function, leading to infertility, low sperm count and erectile dysfunction. Female who use steroids may have problems with their menstrual cycles because steroids can disrupt the maturation and release of eggs from the ovaries. This can cause long term problems with fertility.
5. Aggressive Behaviour: Theuse of steroid hormones can increase aggression and violent behaviour.

Consequences of Steroid Hormone Abuse

The consequences of steroid hormone abuse extend beyond the individual user. The growing trend of steroid hormone abuse has significant implications for public health, sports, and society as a whole.

• Although these steroids might help build muscle, steroids can have very serious side effects. Theuse of steroid hormones in sports undermines fair play and creates an uneven playing field.
• The promotion ofsteroid enhanced physiques perpetuates unrealistic beauty standards, contributing to body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem. This can also have a significant burden on healthcare resources, diverting- attention away from other pressing health concerns.
• Besides the healthrisks, people who use steroids without a prescription are breaking the law. Drug testing for all athletes is common and those who fail a drug test for steroids can face legal consequences, including jail time, monetary fines, being banned from an event or team.

To combat the growing trend of steroid hormone abuse, it is essential to address the root cause of this behaviour. This includes:

Promoting a healthy lifestyle: Encourage healthy lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise and balanced nutrition. This can help an individual to achieve their fitness goals without resorting to steroid hormones.

Creating Awareness and Educating People: Educating individuals about the dangers of steroid hormone abuse can help prevent misuse and promote informed decision making.

Supporting Mental Health: Addressing the underlying mental health issues, such as body dysmorphic disorder can help individuals develop a healthier relationship with their bodies.

A lot of people tell themselves that they will only use steroids for a season or a school year. Unfortunately, steroids can be addictive, making it hard to stop taking them. An alarming use of steroid hormone abuse in bodybuilding is a growing concern that requires immediate attention. By promoting healthy lifestyle choices, providing education and awareness, and supporting mental health we can break the cycle of steroid hormone abuse and foster a culture of healthy and sustainable fitness practices.

(Dr. Manjunath Malige, Director – Diabetes and Endocrinology, Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru)