Use And Knowledge Concerning Anabolic-androgenic Steroids (AAS) Among Male Brazilian Bodybuilders

Abstract

Athletes, especially bodybuilders, have recognized for several decades that use of AAS can promote muscle growth. More recently, AAS use by non-athletes has also become popular simply as an easy way to "look good". The use of AAS is a serious problem in general. In Brazil, use represents a public health concern. Unfortunately, the risk factors for this type of drug abuse are little studied. PURPOSE: To analyze the use and knowledge concerning AAS among male bodybuilders in a fitness center in Recife, City of Pernambuco, State of Northeast Brazil. METHODS: An anonymous questionnaire with 13 objective questions and 2 open-ended questions was distributed to male members of the fitness center. Twenty-seven volunteers, between the ages of 18 and 50, completed the questionnaire. The questionnaire included a general information section, which ended with the question, 'What is your opinion of AAS?'. Another section asked about patterns of use, effects of AAS use, and reasons leading to initial use of AAS. RESULTS: 85.2% of the participants had a basic knowledge of AAS; 33.3% related AAS to various adverse health problems, and 29.6% to the potential for death; 25.9% learned about AAS from health professionals, 18.5% from a fitness center member, and 22.2% from TV; 30% had used AAS in pursuit of the "perfect body" and to increase muscle mass; 11% decided to use AAS to enhance appearance and to boost self-esteem; AAS were administered by a friend in 11% of cases and by a pharmacist in 4% of the cases. Regarding adverse health effects following AAS use, 11% reported increased acne and 4% lower libido. Eleven percent purchased AAS without a prescription and 4% from a fitness friend. Thirty-seven percent didn't know how nutritional supplements differed from AAS. CONCLUSION: Although, AAS are illegal, use appears to have increased significantly over the past three decades among recreational athletes. The use of AAS is a growing concern that presents an interesting public health challenge in Brazil. AAS are being used, with associated risk factors, to achieve what many consider socially desirable outcomes: being physically fit, healthy, and attractive. Our research emphasizes the necessity for an effective prevention and education campaign that addresses the problems related to the misuse of AAS.