In the glitzy world of Instagram reels and shredded physiques, a dangerous trend is silently gaining ground—steroid misuse among young Indians, particularly gym-goers under the age of 35. While sculpted abs and bulging biceps may garner likes and admiration, the price many pay for these aesthetic goals is far steeper than imagined. The abuse of anabolic steroids and unregulated fitness supplements has evolved into a full-blown public health crisis.
The New Gym Culture: Hustle or Harm? Gone are the days when gym workouts were solely about improving health and endurance. Today, social media has created an environment of aesthetic competition. Influencers flaunting perfectly chiselled bodies fuel unrealistic body standards. In this hyper-competitive landscape, many young men—and increasingly, women—turn to quick fixes. Anabolic steroids promise rapid muscle growth, fat loss, and that elusive “cut” look. But at what cost? Steroids, initially designed to treat medical conditions like delayed puberty or muscle loss from diseases, are now misused for vanity. And the consequences can be catastrophic.
Avascular Necrosis; The Silent Reaper: A vascular necrosis (AVN), a condition that leads to the death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply, is on the rise—especially among youth. Shockingly, top orthopaedic hospitals in Delhi report that over 70% of their AVN cases are linked to steroid abuse. Many patients are in their early twenties or thirties—ages when joint replacement surgeries should be the last concern. AVN primarily affects the hips, causing pain, stiffness, and eventually, disability. In advanced stages, hip replacement becomes the only option. Young people, once athletic and vibrant, find themselves facing limited mobility and chronic pain. The irony? They began their fitness journey to look and feel better.
The Supplement Trap: It’s not just steroids. The broader gym supplement industry is poorly regulated in India. Protein powders, fat burners, and muscle gainers often contain hidden anabolic substances, stimulants, or heavy metals. Labels rarely tell the full story. Many of these products bypass regulatory scrutiny altogether, especially those purchased online or imported without certification. What’s worse, gym trainers—most of whom lack formal medical or nutritional training—often double as supplement advisors. In an effort to boost client results and gym reputation, they recommend “stacks” of supplements that can have severe long-term repercussions.
“We must choose between glorifying dangerous shortcuts or promoting sustainable health and fitness. The young generation deserves better—better guidance, better regulation, and most importantly, better role models. Because true strength isn’t just about how you look—it’s about how you live.”
Psychological Fallout: Physical damage is only half the story. Steroid misuse has also been linked to mental health challenges including aggression, mood swings, depression, and even suicidal ideation. This condition, sometimes referred to as “roid rage,” can ruin relationships, careers, and mental well-being. The pressure to look perfect has now become a dangerous psychological trap.
Lack of Awareness, Regulation: One of the most alarming aspects of this crisis is the general lack of awareness. Most young gym-goers are unaware of what they’re consuming or injecting. Terms like “cutting cycle,” “bulking,” or “testosterone boosters” are thrown around casually, but few understand the science—or the risks—behind them. India currently lacks comprehensive regulation when it comes to fitness supplements and steroid distribution. While the Drugs and Cosmetics Act prohibits the sale of anabolic steroids without a prescription, enforcement remains lax. Steroids can be easily purchased at certain pharmacies or even online, no questions asked.
The Way Forward: This rising health hazard demands a multi-pronged approach:
1. Stricter Regulation: The government must crack down on the illegal sale of anabolic steroids and unapproved supplements. Regulatory bodies like FSSAI and CDSCO need to intensify scrutiny over imported fitness products.
2. Public Awareness Campaigns: Schools, colleges, gyms, and social media platforms should be leveraged to spread awareness about the health risks of steroid abuse.
3. Certification of Trainers: Gyms must be mandated to employ certified fitness professionals who are trained in basic sports science and nutrition. Untrained trainers should not be allowed to recommend any substances.
4. Accessible Counseling, Rehab: Establishing helplines and counselling centers for youth dealing with body image issues, steroid dependency, or supplement overuse can help reverse this crisis.
5. Community Involvement: Parents, educators, and influencers must lead by example—promoting a balanced view of fitness that prioritizes health over appearance.
Final Thoughts: India stands at a critical juncture. We must choose between glorifying dangerous shortcuts or promoting sustainable health and fitness. The young generation deserves better—better guidance, better regulation, and most importantly, better role models. Because true strength isn’t just about how you look—it’s about how you live .
(The author is a lawyer by profession. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the author and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”)
Adv. Falak Khan
