Study finds that many young weightlifters use HGH

A recent study published in the American Journal on Addictions shows that the use of human growth hormones (HGH) is common among young male weightlifters.

Researchers said that illicit HGH use is often linked with multiple substance abuses involving performance-enhancing and classical drugs such as marijuana, heroin and cocaine.

The study examined 231 male weightlifters in the U.S. between the ages 18 and 40 and found that 12 percent reported using HGH or a drug similar to it. Individuals in this group were also found to use anabolic-andogenic steroids (AAS). Furthermore, 15 percent reported using opioids, cocaine or ecstasy.

Prolonged use of HGH can cause low blood sugar, liver damage, thyroid damage and acromegely, which is a chronic metabolic disorder where there is too much growth hormone and body tissues gradually enlarge.

Enrolling adolescents in troubled teen programs can help them overcome their opiate addictions by providing substance abuse help and drug rehab.

The 2009 Pride Survey shows one in 14 students in 12th grade reported using anabolic steroids at least once in their lifetime.