Anabolic Steroids (Sport)

Anabolic steroids are drugs that share qualities similar to the male hormone testosterone. These drugs facilitate protein proliferation within cells and promote development of masculine characteristics. In sports, anabolic steroids have been used to promote muscle growth and subsequent enhancement in performance. The production of anabolic steroids first occurred in the 1930s to treat male developmental disorders and manage conditions that depleted muscular proteins.

The distribution and sale of anabolic steroids is a multibillion dollar global industry and is estimated to generate as much as $400 million annually on the black market. The consumption of anabolic steroids is associated with health risks, and remains a problem in sports that emphasize strength and power, such as baseball, American football, and wrestling. Anabolic steroids are currently banned by ...