Though overall illicit drug use decreased slightly among American adolescents in 1999, the use of anabolic steroids increased in some groups, according to a press release from the University of Michigan. Researchers noted that the increase did not vary by region or community size. Lloyd D. Johnston, PhD, a senior research scientist at the ISR, said in the press release that he thinks Mark McGwire's reported use of androstenedione, combined with his setting a home run record, affected young boys. Johnson noted that McGwire announced he had stopped using androstenedione in early 1999 because of his concern about his role model status. The ISR has been tracking drug use trends among high school students since 1975.
Students complete a self-administered, optically scanned questionnaire in the spring of each year.
The 1999 sample size includes 45,000 students from 433 secondary schools. The CPSC estimates that wearing helmets specifically designed for skiing and snowboarding may prevent or reduce the severity of 7,000 head injuries. Select the right equipment with proper fit. Seek proper training and don't ski or board beyond ability. Maintain control on the slopes and follow posted rules.