They are designed to affect the growth of the male reproductive system, growth of body hair, and deepening of the voice and to stimulate the development of bone, muscle, and skin. Androgenic-Anabolic steroids are used in medical treatment of asthma, arthritis, breast cancer, injuries, growth problems, and chemotherapy. When used without the instructions of a doctor, however, they can cause long-term or irreversible problems.
Steroids do appear to increase muscle mass, strength, and endurance.
However, athletic ability also depends on skill, mental alertness, diet, rest, cardiovascular health, and genetic inheritance. The misuse of steroids may lead to health conditions such as liver tumors, jaundice, fluid retention, and high blood pressure. Experts in sports medicine agree that using steroids poses unacceptable health risks to the athlete. Several states have enacted even more stringent controls on these drugs. In addition, steroid use has been banned from sports competitions since it was officially outlawed at the 1973 Olympic Games.