Bias Among Health Care Professionals: How Prejudice Leads to Diagnostic Delay in Patients Using Anabolic–Androgenic Steroids

Abstract

Introduction: Anabolic–androgenic steroids (AASs) are commonly used by both professional and amateur athletes to improve strength, muscle mass, and physical appearance. Aims: Scientific data on the adverse effects of AASs are scarce and there is little place for the subject in medical curricula. This may lead to a lack of knowledge and distrusting attitudes of physicians toward AAS users. The aim of this case series is to illustrate how these issues may lead to diagnostic delay and to make a plea for better education on the topic. Case Description: We describe three patients who attended our outpatient AAS clinic with azoospermia, gynecomastia, and hypogonadism, respectively. After referral to the appropriate specialist, symptoms were wrongly appreciated, sometimes despite our medical recommendations, and patients did not receive the necessary additional investigations or treatment in a timely manner. Discussion: Diagnostic delay in the presented cases was the result of inexperience with the subject and unfamiliarity with health effects of AASs. Prejudice and stigmatization may lead to a tendency to wait, and a reluctance to help, (former) AAS users. Conclusion: All patients and substance abusers, including AAS users, should be treated equally, despite the cause of their illness. Diagnostic delay can be prevented with an unbiased attitude and improved education.