They need to hear a more balanced approach that includes both the benefits and risks of anabolic steroids. That means you need to hear that steroids can in fact build up your muscles, but steroids also can have dangerous side effects that, believe it or not, can actually happen to you. This is a science-based program funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse and developed and tested at the Oregon Health Science University in Portland. Coaches and team leaders talk about the effects of anabolic steroids and other illegal drugs on sports performance and teach athletes how to refuse these drugs. They teach proper training and nutrition to help the adolescent build up his body without the use of steroids.
Special trainers teach weight-lifting techniques.
Parents are also included in the program so they can help support the young athlete. Dr. Jonathan Trager is a physician board certified in pediatrics and dermatology. He is a fellow at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City and a staff member of the Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider.