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The History Of Anabolic Steroids: From Medical Use To Sports Enhancement and Health
Anabolic steroids are a synthetic form of testosterone, a naturally occurring hormone in the human body. The drugs were originally developed to assist in the treatment of various medical conditions such as hypogonadism, delayed puberty, and muscle wasting associated with HIV/AIDS. However, as understanding of their effects has grown, anabolic steroid use has increasingly become popular among bodybuilders and professional athletes for their purported performance-enhancing properties. This article reviews the development of anabolic steroid use from the medical to sports enhancement and health.
Medical Use Of Anabolic Steroids
Anabolic steroids were first developed in the 1930s to treat individuals with hormone deficiencies, contributing to conditions such as hypogonadism. Hypogonadism is a condition where the body does not produce enough testosterone for normal development and functioning.
In the 1950s, anabolic steroids were used to treat delayed puberty and various other medical conditions. By 1960, doctors had developed a variety of anabolic steroids for medical use. However, the medical use of anabolic steroids has been increasingly limited in recent years due to the potential for abuse and side effects.
Sports Enhancement
In the 1970s and 1980s, the use of anabolic steroids shifted toward an increasingly recreational basis. Professional sports leagues and athletes began experimenting with anabolic steroids to enhance their performance. This increase in anabolic steroid use was reflected in the media, and it soon became commonplace in the sports world.
Health Issues
The extended use of anabolic steroids has been associated with a variety of health risks, including liver disease, heart disease, increased blood pressure, increased cholesterol levels, and a variety of mental health issues. The side effects of anabolic steroid use can be permanent and irreversible. Due to these risks, the medical use of anabolic steroids has been severely limited and their use as performance-enhancing drugs has been banned by most professional sports leagues.
Conclusion
Anabolic steroids have been developed for medical use, but their popularity has largely been driven by athletes and bodybuilders looking to enhance their performance. Unfortunately, the extended use of anabolic steroids can be associated with a variety of dangerous health risks, making them increasingly difficult to access and use. If you’re considering using steroids, it’s important to understand the risks that come with it and discuss the decision with your doctor to reduce any potential harm.
Keywords: Anabolic Steroids, Testosterone, Hypogonadism, Sports Enhancement, Health Risks, Side Effects, Professional Sports Leagues
