Anabolic steroids and growth hormone in the Texas Panhandle

We conducted a survey of family physicians and general pediatricians in the Texas Panhandle to learn about patient interest in anabolic steroids and growth hormone. Responses were anonymous. Fifty-five percent of those surveyed responded. Of these, 48.5% had received inquiries about anabolic steroids, 29% had seen patients they felt were taking steroids, and 15% had received inquiries concerning growth hormone. All inquirers about steroids and growth hormone and all perceived steroid users were male, and almost all were white. Adolescents (from 13 to 17 years old) accounted for 48% of the inquiries, young adults (18 to 25 years old) 48%, and adults 4%. Twenty percent of the inquiries were made by parents. Adolescents accounted for 31% of the perceived steroid users, young adults 68%, and adults 1%. Weight lifters and body builders comprised 60% of this group, football players 26%, and those taking steroids primarily for psychological reasons 13%. Nearly all inquiries about growth hormone were made by parents, and 44% were made on behalf of children for purposes of augmenting their normal height or for athletic enhancement.