When we look at professional athletes, bodybuilders, and powerlifters, a common question comes up: Are they on something? We see them accomplish amazing feats of strength and athleticism, and it makes us question if they use steroids.

Senior Dany Franco believes they do. “What they do takes too much strength to do naturally,” he said. Senior Hughues Agustin added, “Could be. It does make them perform better.”

What They Are

Steroids are controversial. Many people look down on them, believing that taking them is cheating, dishonest, and unnatural. There are still many athletes, bodybuilders, and regular gymgoers, however, who take them.

According to an article posted on the website Medlineplus.gov, anabolic steroids are man-made substances related to male sex hormones. Doctors use anabolic steroids to treat some hormone problems in men, such as delayed puberty and muscle loss from some diseases. People often use anabolic steroids to build muscles and improve athletic performance.

School Opinions

Students here at Miami Senior High have their own views on steroids. Senior Fernando Fundora, a volleyball player said, “It gives an unfair advantage over those who don’t take them.”

Senior volleyball player Manny Baldizon, who is also against steroids, said, “I believe steroids can cause many negative side effects and make people become narcissistic.”

On the other hand, weightlifter and senior Joel Brito supports steroid use. He said, “You got to do what it takes to win. A lot of people are already on it, so you might as well do it yourself.”

Junior Jason Jaime, another weightlifter, said,“It helps people build muscle faster.”

Mr. Perlett, one of the weight training teachers at Miami High, said, “I believe the war on drugs is a waste of money. They should legalize steroids, but keep it monitored.”

Would You Use It?

Because of their ban and the general negative view on them, most people say they wouldn’t use steroids, and most users wouldn’t admit to steroid use. But what if they were legal? Would people reconsider their use? Senior Anthony Ruiz said he would, but only if he were competing as a bodybuilder or in a sport.

Senior Osniel Aparacio, however, said he wouldn’t because, “I simply don’t believe in their use.”

While you may not know any steroid-users, some students here at MHS do. Joel Brito said, “Yeah, I know somebody who uses. He’s even offered them to me before.”

Dany Franco said he knew someone at his gym who uses them, but that person never offered him any. While mood swings are a common side effect of steroids, both Joel and Dany said that they never noticed the users’ personality change.

Common Side Effects from Taking Anabolic Steroids

• Heart Attacks
• Mood Swings
• Enlarged Heart
• Inhibited growth and development in teenagers
• High blood pressure

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/performance-enhancing-drugs/art-20046134