The National Institute on Drug Abuse defines the term anabolic steroid as any synthetic variation of the male hormone testosterone. Steroids can be used to treat hormonal issues and can help combat muscular atrophy and other conditions. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts can also abuse them for purposes of performance enhancement or for the improvement of physical appearance. This informative edition describes issues pertaining to steroid abuse. It explores both the body building benefits that steroids offer and the dangerous side effects of the drugs. Since the International Olympics Committee and many professional sports organizations have banned their use, the issues surrounding regulation and testing are also addressed.