Women aren't the only ones dealing with the pressure of unrealistic ideal body images. Just like runway models, pro athletes and fitness icons often exhibit physiques unattainable by most men. Men idolize their favorite sports stars and wonder how to bulk up like them.

Recent data suggests that many are resorting to anabolic steroids at an alarmingly early age. "Nearly four of five steroid users in a recent survey were non-athletes who took the drugs with the sole intention of improving their physical appearance," says Paul Baumert, MD, UI Sports Medicine physician. "This trend is unfortunately fostered by society's fixations on physical appearance."

Illegal steroids can impact your body in a number of ways that may be permanent:

• Stops the production of testosterone, resulting in testicular shrinkage, decreased sperm production, stimulation of breast tissue in some men
• Leads to unwanted hair growth, cessation of breast development in females
• Causes mood swings, hallucinations, paranoia, vomiting, tremors, and suicidal thoughts
• Increases risk of heart disease, stroke, some cancers, and HIV (if using injections)

"If developing young people are looking for an extreme makeover, they just may get it—but unfortunately, it may not turn out exactly as they planned, and the damage could be permanent," says Baumert.

For more information

UI Health Access
319-384-8442, ext. 107,
Or
800-777-8442, ext. 107