Steroid use much higher among gay, bisexual teen boys

CHICAGO (AP):

GAY AND bisexual teen boys use illicit steroids at a rate almost six times higher than do straight kids, a "dramatic disparity" that points up a need to reach out to this group, researchers say.

Reasons for the differences are unclear. The study authors said it is possible gay and bi boys feel more pressure to achieve a bulked-up "ideal" male physique, or that they think muscle-building steroids will help them fend off bullies.

Overall, 21 per cent of gay or bisexual boys said they had never used steroids, versus four per cent of straight boys. The difference was similar among those who reported moderate use - taking steroid pills or injections up to 40 times: eight per cent of gay or bi teens reported that amount, versus less than two per cent of straight boys. The heaviest use - 40 or more times - was reported by four per cent of gays or bi boys, compared with less than one per cent of straight teens.

The study is billed as the first to examine the problem. Previous research has found similar disparities for other substance abuse.