MODIFICATION AND REPLICATION OF THE ATLAS (ADOLESCENTS TRAINING AND LEARNING TO AVOID STEROIDS) PROGRAM.

Abstract

521 We have previously shown the ATLAS (Adolescents Training and Learning To Avoid Steroids) program effective in reducing young athletes' intent to use anabolic steroids (AS) and promoting healthy behaviors. During the initial implementation year, seven classroom sessions were facilitated by coaches and student team leaders. During the third year, implementation time was reduced to 5 classroom sessions and facilitated by research staff and student team leaders. Despite the shortened version, the initial cohort and Year 03 athletes new to the intervention participated in a curriculum with the same topics: sports nutrition and strength training alternatives to AS use; drug knowledge; refusal skill role play; and anti-AS media campaigns. Pre- and post-intervention questionnaires assessed AS use risk factors, intentions and use of AS, and dietary and exercise habits. Both years' intervention included weight training sessions taught by research staff strength trainers. After the modified intervention, results revealed that the program improved similar risk and protective factors found to be enhanced with the initial cohort's intervention. Compared to control athletes, ATLAS participants in the modified program reported lower intent to use AS, greater knowledge of supplements and exercise, improved understanding of the effects of marijuana and AS, greater belief in peers as an information source, and more negative feelings toward AS users (all p<.05). In addition, positive perceived changes in body image and self-esteem were present (p<.05) among experimental participants. The ATLAS program, modified with a 29% reduction in classroom time and having a non-school research staff member facilitate curriculum delivery, effectively reduces risk factors & desire to use AS while improving nutrition and exercise behaviors. ATLAS is effective, reproducible, and can be facilitated by non-school educators.