Athletic trainers denounce steroids.

• Position: YOUR LIFE - Brief Article

As the principal point of contact for drug testing programs in high school, college, and professional sports, certified athletic trainers often see the first signs of chemical use among athletes. Concerned with the issue of anabolic steroids and a number of other performance-enhancing substances, the National Athletic Trainers' Association, Dallas, Tex., supports bans on steroids and other controlled substances not prescribed by a physician for therapeutic purposes, and more severe penalties for those who violate imposed regulations or bans.

"An equally important weapon in the battle against steroid use," says NATA President Chuck Kimmel, "is a thorough education of our professional and student-athletes, parents, and coaches on the serious health problems they can cause now and later in life. One of NATA's concerns is the health and safety of all athletes, which we believe are compromised...