The Associated Press reported April 4 that the group issued a policy statement condemning steroid use and calling for doctors, parents, and coaches to deliver a strong message about fair competition to kids. "We're creating a society of kids who just take a pill to improve performance and to gain an unfair advantage," said Dr. Eric Small, chairman of an AAP committee that has been working on the steroids issue for the past five years.

Steroids, although dangerous, do work, so the AAP advises doctors not to risk their credibility by questioning the effectiveness of the drugs. Instead, said Small, they should address peer pressure and help athletes find healthier ways to boost performance, such as through diet and exercise.

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