Legalization of Steroids

Legalization of Steroids Anabolic steroids are a synthetically produced deviation from the naturally occurring male hormone testosterone. “Anabolic” refers to the drugs’ dramatic muscle building tendencies while “steroid” refers to the family of drugs themselves. Discreetly affecting its users in an adverse manner, anabolic steroids continue to grow in popularity. Users notice impressive gains in both strength and size while overlooking the numerous negative side effects that accompany steroid use. With the thought of what is best for humanity at the forefront of the mindset, the selling, personal use, and possession of steroids with intent to sell, must be kept from legalization unless a prescription is present. The issue is not simply one of legality it easily transcends the borders of morality as well. When people speak of steroids, the caution flag is waived. Rightly so, for they can be dangerous but they also give the impression that they work. That is why people take them. Steroids are a derivative of testosterone, so you can either ingest or inject them. With the addition of steroids into the body muscle mass is built up and the user receives the “anabolic effect” which appears to counteract aging. Steroids literally stop the breakdown of tissue so for the user aging seems to stop and muscles grow to many times their former proportions. Steroids are the infamous bane of the health and fitness world. They are easily obtainable from pharmacies, health food outlets, locker rooms, and a myriad of other suppliers. They instill quick, climactic growth of muscle and strength. Sadly, the positive effects associated with steroid use do not outweigh the numerous, life altering, negative effects. The issue no longer is selective to a certain clientele, “Once viewed as a problem strictly associated with body builders, fitness buffs, and professional athletes, the abuse of steroids is prevalent in today’s society. In reality the problem is widespread including school-age children, athletes, business professionals etc.” (“Steroid Abuse in Today’s Society“). Steroid abuse can be found in all walks of life as the quick producing tendencies of the substances become more recognized. There are many forms and faces of steroids. However, anabolic-androgenic steroids are the blatantly harmful substances familiar to the public for their muscle building tendencies. It is noted that “Bodybuilders and athletes often use anabolic steroids to build muscle and improve athletic performance. But using them this way is not legal or safe. Abuse of anabolic steroids has been linked with many health problems. They range from unattractive to life threatening.” (“Anabolic Steroids”). Substances such as steroids are outlawed due to their highly dangerous side effects. They damage the body and mind and leave long term problems for the user to deal with. Some of the effects of steroids include: liver tumors, jaundice, fluid retention, paranoid jealousy, irritability, delusions, impaired judgment stemming from feelings of invincibility, and high blood pressure. A few effects particular to men are: testicular shrinking, reduced sperm count, infertility, baldness, and development of breasts. The effects for women are also immense and they embrace growth of facial hair, problems with the menstrual cycle, and deepened voice. Why would anyone risk such problems? The simple answer is: the quest for the perfect body; the body that people see in movies, on television, in magazines and advertisements. The public is continuously influenced by unrealistic personal images. The “perfectly sculpted”, and steroid induced physiques seen everywhere are not what nature intended.
On the other hand, anabolic steroids are not always used illegally. Steroids can also have a medical benefit when prescribed by a doctor for health reasons. Interestingly enough,
“Anabolic steroids are synthetic male hormones which enhance and repair the body tissue-building process. They are used medically to treat anemia (low red blood cell count); to control breast cancer in women; to improve weight loss due to severe illness, and to treat osteoporosis (bone loss). Use of this for non- medical reasons poses serious, life threatening consequences.” (“Generic”).
The problem persists when steroid use trickles away from its medical origins. It is in this situation that steroid users and abusers have contacted real problems. There are many varying viewpoints and opinions regarding steroid use and trafficking. The laws on the subject, however, are quite clear. “The Anabolic Steroids Control Act of 1990 became law on November 29, 1990... The law applies in every Federal court across the country. It places steroids in the same legal class - Schedule III -- as barbiturates, LSD precursors, veterinary tranquilizers like Ketamine and narcotic painkillers like Vicodin” (Collins). According to Collins, of Collins, McDonald and Gann, P.C., The Anabolic Steroids Control Act can be enforced and violations persecuted in every state. They continue on to say that anyone arrested and persecuted in federal court will face sentencing under the United States Sentencing Guidelines (Collins). It is imperative that the laws regarding the illegal use and sale of steroids be upheld not just for the health of those that might take the substance but for the future morality of society. Although most understand that steroids will never be an intelligent alternative to natural physical training and advancement, there are some who believe differently. A sampling of the claims regarding the beneficial use of steroids include: increased athletic performance, more attractive body composition, and allusion of health. According to Clint Kaneoka, “despite what we are taught to believe, benefits can be reaped through the use of steroids” (Kaneoka). An article by Studyworld states: “Many people are fascinated about steroids because of their ability to build up the body. Whether taken by injection or the pill it increases strength and endurance. Steroids also help in the healing process of muscular tissue by first injuring them, then the muscles heal quicker adding more fiber increasing their bulk” (“Steroids”). The profit from taking steroids is perceptible; the outcome, however, is much too small when paying such a high price. Steroids are a part of a long list of things that athletes do in order to win. Better shoes, equipment, training, and coaching than the opponent is not seen as a significant problem. Some believe the solution should be to equalize the playing field. On that note many people express outrage about steroid use but there is never a question raised about whether one team or athlete has an unfair advantage over the other due to better opportunities not associated with steroid use. Steroids are easily obtainable and available to anyone interested in using them. Many see them as a way of leveling the playing field. Of course the idea of leveling the playing field can also be used in regards to business, or life in general.
When considering the moral actions associated with steroid use, we must consider the use of other dangerous substances as well that are not illegal. A perfect example is the use of Botox as a beauty product. Botox is actually a toxin but many use the products to reduce the effects of aging. The risks were deemed unimportant as the use of this toxin is not outlawed and the practice of using Botox on a regular basis is widespread. So, the question is presented as to why steroids are outlawed and Botox is not. Is Botox morally accepted in today’s culture? If so, why are steroids not equally accepted? It is apparent that for some, having ripped biceps, illegally hitting a record number of home runs, or getting that extra attention from the opposite sex is more important than overall health. This is despite the massive amount of condemning evidence already stated. The benefits of steroids are only recognized if the negative effects are shadowed by a naive outlook or blatant disregard for longevity of health. It is in this circumstance that society must save such unperceptive characters from themselves and the substances that will be their downfall. On the subject of steroids, payoff is only accomplished after the damage has been done. Taking one step forward with the use of steroids is but a precursor to taking ten steps back after the side effects have run their course. Steroids, the highly infamous, dangerous substances that guarantee loss of quality of life. When considering the moral implications of steroid use, the issue itself is a hot one. The societal norms say it is immoral to a point. The law says it is illegal period. But the law is a contradiction, because of the use of steroids by all avenues of society, including police officers. The derivatives of steroids and the use of other harsh substances such as Botox in our society have formed a proclivity towards outward appearances. This proclivity is seen on our television, magazines, and other print media. It reveals the true moral issue here. Look good, feel good. This is the goal of success. When children are raised with morals that tell us we are what we look like, this is the real tragedy. It should be considered that the issue here for all, including ballplayers is why? Why do you feel the need to do this? Is it for money, fame, fortune, and success? For many, the issue is just that. We are success driven. Strive to be the best in society. Don’t let anything stop you. This drive makes athletes of all ages, young and not so young decide to take steroids. Unfortunately, this phase of how you look is what you are or what you will be is often seen as a terrible shift in a direction away from the solid moral boundaries of society. For many today, the issue will not go away. Steroids are here. They are mainstream and infiltrated into almost every aspect of society. But this is just a small proportion of the real problem. This is one, in which, people will do anything to look good, get ahead, and be a “real success”. We must look at ourselves and address the real problem here. Taking steroids for whatever reason is just as good or as bad as the woman who takes Botox to look better. Who is right and who is wrong? The answer to both lies deep in the heart. Congress can legislate, people can wind up in trouble for using steroids, but the real answer is neither. The answer lies within. It is where a moral relativism and real morality clash. The real reasons why people take steroids are within them. Only they can know for sure why? The actions they are disposed to do reveal the result of their activity. This is found out by the actions of athletes who take the stuff. Their goal is to be pumped up, at their top form, so they can beat their opponent. Here we find the moral relativism saying "the means justifies the end result". As long as I bring home a winning record, then it is okay. This is the reason many seem to be using anabolic substances. After reviewing the vast negative side effects of steroid use it is obvious that steroids must be kept from legalization because of their obvious negative effects as well as their moral imperfections. They damage the body and mind and must not be permitted in society except for individual and precise medical reasons. From the pro-steroid activist and lobbyist, to those responsible for steroid sale and trafficking, to the small time steroid user, there is a growing movement to legalize steroids in culture. This movement must continue to be derailed by an aware, healthy, and moral community. Steroids will never be a viable alternative to natural health and fitness. The damaging short and long term affects of steroids are undeniable. Laws currently in place are appropriate for prohibiting a dangerous substance. Attention directed to enforcing these laws is essential. A crack down on steroid use, trafficking, and sale is necessary in achieving the goal of ridding communities of such a dangerous element. Keeping in mind the overall health and well-being of humanity in general; it is imperative that the selling, personal use, and possession with intent to sell, must be kept from legalization unless under the permission of a prescription.

Works Cited
“Anabolic Steroids.” MedlinePlus.com. 23 Nov. 2007. National Institute on Drug Abuse. 2 Dec. 2007 .
Collins, Rick. “Federal and State Steroid Laws.” SteroidLaw.com. 5 Jan. 2003. Collins, McDonald & Gann, P.C. 2 Dec. 2007 .
“Generic Name: Anabolic Steroids-Oral.” MedicineNet.com. 1996-2007. WebMD. 2 Dec. 2007 .
Kaneoka, Clint. “For athletes, are the benefits of steroid use outweighing the penalties?.” Kapio.com. 26 Oct. 2005. The Kapi’o Newspress. 9 Dec. 2007 .
“Steroid Abuse in Today’s Society.” gdcada.org 6 Mar. 2006. Greater Dallas Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse. 2 Dec. 2007 .
“Steroids.” Studyworld.com. 1996-2007. Oakwood Mgt. 10 Dec. 2007 < http://www.studyworld.com/newsite/ReportEssay/socialissues/drug%5CSteroids-34544.htm>.

Cited: “Anabolic Steroids.” MedlinePlus.com. 23 Nov. 2007. National Institute on Drug Abuse. 2 Dec. 2007 . Collins, Rick. “Federal and State Steroid Laws.” SteroidLaw.com. 5 Jan. 2003. Collins, McDonald & Gann, P.C. 2 Dec. 2007 . “Generic Name: Anabolic Steroids-Oral.” MedicineNet.com. 1996-2007. WebMD. 2 Dec. 2007 . Kaneoka, Clint. “For athletes, are the benefits of steroid use outweighing the penalties?.” Kapio.com. 26 Oct. 2005. The Kapi’o Newspress. 9 Dec. 2007 . “Steroid Abuse in Today’s Society.” gdcada.org 6 Mar. 2006. Greater Dallas Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse. 2 Dec. 2007 . “Steroids.” Studyworld.com. 1996-2007. Oakwood Mgt. 10 Dec. 2007 < http://www.studyworld.com/newsite/ReportEssay/socialissues/drug%5CSteroids-34544.htm>.