Surge in Steroid Use Among Youth Raises Alarm in Parliament: Experts Call for Immediate Scrutiny of Supplements

The rising craze for steroids among young people, coupled with their open sale, has now reached the halls of Parliament. State Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal recently raised the issue, prompting health experts to urge immediate inspection of the supplement and steroid market.

The Growing Obsession with Steroids

In an era where fitness culture dominates social media, more young adults are seeking rapid muscle growth and chiseled physiques. However, this trend comes with serious health risks. Cardiologists warn that steroid use can lead to heart attacks, liver damage, and severe mental health problems.

MP Swati Maliwal highlighted the rampant illegal sale and use of anabolic steroids and counterfeit supplements in Parliament. She further posted on Instagram that banned substances are openly available despite legal restrictions.

“These steroids can damage the liver, cause impotence, trigger anger and depression, and even lead to suicidal thoughts,” she said. “Certain asthma medications are being misused as fat burners. They are illegal, yet easily available in supplement stores.”

The Hidden Dangers in Gyms and Supplements

Many young people consume protein powders and muscle-building supplements without realizing that the market is flooded with counterfeit or substandard products. Even reputed stores cannot guarantee authenticity, and some gym trainers advise steroid cycles to achieve quick results.

Heart Risks: Cardiologists caution that such substances can have sudden and potentially fatal effects. Dr. Ambuj Roy, from the Cardiology Department at AIIMS, explains, “Anabolic steroids raise blood pressure, accelerate artery blockages, and promote blood clot formation, which can lead to sudden heart attacks and permanent weakening of heart muscles.”

In the past three months, AIIMS has treated three patients suffering severe heart failure and blood clots due to the misuse of medications like mephentermine. Dr. Roy warns that repeated misuse can cause long-term heart damage.

Mental Health Impact: Steroid abuse also affects mental well-being. Prof. Nand Kumar from AIIMS’ Psychiatry Department notes that long-term use can lead to depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, irritability, and aggression. It can also disrupt hormone levels in men, reducing sexual drive and worsening depression.

Liver and Kidney Damage: Steroids severely impact the liver. Dr. Piyush Ranjan, Co-Chairman of Liver Gastroenterology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, says, “Anabolic steroids and many supplements contain undisclosed compounds that can harm the liver and, in severe cases, lead to liver failure. Kidney damage is also a concern.” Globally, 10–15% of liver diseases are linked to medication misuse.

Call for Market Oversight

While some users monitor their liver and kidney health, many continue steroid use despite knowing the risks. With the issue now discussed in Parliament and hospitals reporting increasing cases, experts emphasize the urgent need for stringent inspection of the supplement and steroid market to prevent further health crises.