Steroid abuse sparks health fears

CHAKWAL:

The increasing and unnecessary use of powerful injections in rural areas of Chakwal has raised serious public health concerns, local sources say.

Reports indicate that steroids and strong painkillers such as "Diclo," "Dexa," and "Kenacort" are being widely misused in several villages. Untrained individuals at medical stores are allegedly posing as doctors, prescribing and administering these injections to patients.

Health experts warn that these medicines are only meant to be used under strict medical supervision for specific conditions, but their misuse for common ailments like fever, minor pain and weakness has become widespread in rural areas.

The trend is being described as a "silent threat" to public health, with rising cases of kidney, liver and other complications. Citizens have urged the health department to take strict action against unregistered medical stores.