Performance Enhancing Drugs In Sport Essay

Throughout the years competitive sporting has only grown in popularity and athletes continue to be held in high regard. The more they win the more fame and wealth they receive, however the pressures of always striving for perfection is often not considered. Pressure is not only a result of the people around us, but of ourselves and the need to preform to the best of our abilities. Unfortunately, the need to preform sometimes outweighs better judgment and physical limitations resulting in mental as well as physical health risks. The social pressures and expectations of competitive sporting lead athletes to ignore health related risks through drug use and in exceeding physical as well as mental limitations. Throughout history the fixation of fame and fortune that comes with …show more content…
The desire for first place and all that comes with it leaves many athletes quick to choose doping as their way to victory, however it may not always be worth it. The health related risks concerned with usage of performance enhancing drugs vary between the different types of drugs. The most common of health risks from steroids, growth hormones and stimulants include cardio vascular disease, increased risk of hearth attack, strokes, thickening of the blood, embolisms and many more (Baron, 2007). This social health issue is one that comes from the desires to be the best and is something that is created as a society. The media portrays athletes in the highest regard and they receive praise and recognition from millions of fans. The pressure for other athletes to get to the top leads to doping for quick results and the athletes that are already at the top use doping to stay there. This social problem leads athletes to only consider being number one at any cost regardless of health risks, as placing third or even second would not receive the same respect and fame. Furthermore, money and fame are not