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Illicit Hormone Trade

Meaning

The illicit hormone trade encompasses the unauthorized, underground network involved in the manufacture, distribution, and sale of hormonal substances, including anabolic-androgenic steroids, growth hormone, and various peptides, that circumvent legitimate pharmaceutical supply chains and regulatory oversight. This criminal enterprise poses a serious public health threat because the products are often counterfeit, contaminated, incorrectly labeled, or dosed improperly, leading to unpredictable and potentially severe health consequences for users. Combatting this trade requires coordinated international efforts across law enforcement and public health sectors.