Random testing of high school athletes for steroid use is an unfortunate necessity that will protect the integrity of high school sports and, more importantly, protect the students who play them.

The testing will show students that the Illinois High School Association is serious about its ban on performance-enhancing drugs.

Illinois is the fourth state to approve random drug testing for high school athletes. More states should consider such programs.

How often have we heard recently that Major League Baseball waited too long to crack down on steroid use? As a result, many recent record-breaking performances have been called into question and players who were once considered shoe-ins for the Hall of Fame might never get in the door.

Even with tough testing rules, there will be cheaters. It's bad enough to use illegal drugs, lying about it adds to the wrongdoing.

Consider Marion Jones, the disgraced former Olympic track star, who was sentenced last week to six months in prison for lying about steroid use during sworn testimony in the BALCO investigation - the same investigation that led to the indictment of home-run king Barry Bonds.

The more rigorous the testing, the fewer athletes will get away with cheating - or even try to do so.

Rigorous testing also sends a strong message that drug use won't be tolerated.

That is an important aspect of the IHSA program, sending a clear message to athletes that it is wrong to use performance-enhancing drugs.

Costing about $200 each, the tests are too expensive for widespread testing at the high school level. But focusing on steroids and post-season competition is a wise use of the money.

Also important is the educational program that is planned by the IHSA.

It is important for all students, including those who don't participate in sports, to recognize the dangers of steroids. This is more than a sportsmanship issue.

The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that steroid use can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, liver damage and an increased risk of ligament and tendon injuries. Its use by young people can lead to stunted growth because growth-plates may close prematurely.

Some schools, such as Prairie Central High School, already have student drug testing programs.

The Prairie Central random testing program, which began in 2005, applies to anyone involved in extracurricular activities, not just athletes.

The IHSA program will be a good supplement to existing programs.

Not only will it discourage drug use among those who fear getting caught, the testing program will give students an argument to fend off peer pressure to use drugs.