Posted: February 24, 2005

Drugs in Sport: Agency Offers Tip for Parents of Youth Athletes: Don't Let Steroids Tackle Your Teen

As many as 1.1 million young people ages 12-17 have taken a performance-enhancing drug or sport supplement. Parents are the first line of defense when it comes to teens' drug use

Fort Worth, TX (PRWEB) February 24, 2005 -- As many as 1.1 million young people ages 12-17 have taken a performance-enhancing drug or sport supplement, according to a recent survey. Almost four times that many personally know someone who is using these substances.

Although steroids are banned in nearly every sport, young people often hear about athletes using these substances to make them stronger. While steroids may help build muscle in the short term, they are extremely dangerous — especially for young people. They can cause serious health problems in the long run, including damage to the liver, heart and sex organs.

In a recent national survey, parents rated the use of performance-enhancing supplements and drugs and their No. 1 concern in youth sports. Yet, 81 percent of the young people surveyed said they had never had a conversation with their parents about the substances, and 69 percent said they had not received information from their sports teams.

Don"t let steroids tackle your teen

Parents are the first line of defense when it comes to teens" drug use. Parents should take time to learn the facts about steroids, marijuana, drinking, speed and supplements. Talk to your teen about the harmful physical, social, and mental effects that drugs have on young users. Focus specifically on how these drugs could affect your child"s performance on the playing field and his/her future as an athlete and emphasize that they can achieve success without these drugs. For information on how to talk to your teen about drugs, contact Tarrant Council on Alcoholism & Drug Abuse at (817) 332-6329.

About Tarrant Council

Tarrant Council on Alcoholism & Drug Abuse is a private non-profit organization with a 48-year history of providing an essential link between the public and substance abuse services. Tarrant Council serves over 50,000 adults and youth in Tarrant County annually with the mission of "reducing drug and alcohol abuse in our community." It is the front door for substance abuse and treatment and provides prevention programs in 144 schools in Tarrant County.