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Steroids blamed for youth's death Steroids blamed for youth's death
(about 9 hours later)
A course of muscle-building drugs is being blamed for the death of a 17-year-old youth.A course of muscle-building drugs is being blamed for the death of a 17-year-old youth.
The teenager died at Southend University Hospital in Essex early on Monday. Matthew Dear, of Southend-on-Sea, Essex, died at Southend University Hospital early on Monday.
Police said he had been undergoing treatment since 13 April and it was thought he had become seriously ill after taking anabolic steroids.Police said he had been undergoing treatment since 13 April and it was thought he had become seriously ill after taking anabolic steroids.
Three people have been arrested over the death and a post-mortem examination is due to be carried out. Three people have been arrested over the death. They have all been released on police bail until 23 June.
A 17-year-old boy and a 21-year-old man, from Westcliff-on-Sea, and a 24-year-old man from Leigh-on-Sea were arrested on suspicion of supplying a controlled substance.A 17-year-old boy and a 21-year-old man, from Westcliff-on-Sea, and a 24-year-old man from Leigh-on-Sea were arrested on suspicion of supplying a controlled substance.
They have all been released on police bail without charge until 23 June. 'Awaiting results'
A post-mortem examination was due to be carried out.
Matthew's parents Chris and Tina Dear took the decision to release a picture of their son on his deathbed to highlight the dangers of illegal body building drugs.
Police said tests were being carried out to establish what tablets the teenager had taken and a pathologist would examine the teenager's body.
Det Insp Jim Sandford, who is leading the inquiry, added: "We are investigating the cause of death and waiting for the results of various tests including tests being carried out on the type of tablets that were taken."
Anabolic steroids are usually synthesised from the male reproduction hormone testosterone.
They reduce fatigue and recovery time and promote the development of muscle tissue by stimulating protein.
The drugs are banned by many sporting bodies because they create a health risk and can give athletes a competitive advantage.