Prevalence Of Anabolic Steroid Use Research Articles

Assessing the prevalence and knowledge of anabolic steroid use in male athletes in Al Madina Al Munawara, Saudi Arabia.

To assess the prevalence of anabolic steroid use and the level of knowledge on anabolic steroids among the male athletes in Al Madina Al Munawara, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted on male athletes randomly selected from the private athletic centers in Al Madina Al Munawara over 5 months. Data were collected from all participants using a self-administered anonymous questionnaire with 33 questions. The questionnaire covered the socio-demographic characteristics of the participants, and their knowledge, attitudes, and use of anabolic steroids. Of the 150 male athletes surveyed, 121 completed the questionnaire (response rate: 80.6%). Over half were aged between 18 and 23 years (56.2%) and were single (79.3%). Thirty-two percent reported using anabolic steroids, mainly to increase muscle mass, following coaches' advice (46.1%). Key sources included the internet (30.7%), coaches (30%), and friends (27.9%), and non-healthcare professionals. The top motivations were price, coach's/physician's advice, and availability. The perceived benefits included increased muscle mass, strength, and endurance, while the perceived adverse effects included kidney/liver damage and sexual problems. One-third of the male athletes surveyed used anabolic steroids, influenced by accessibility and social contact, rather than healthcare guidance. This highlights the need for greater awareness of the long-term health risks, ideally through education provided by sports medicine specialists.

Exploring the prevalence of anabolic steroid use among men and women resistance training practitioners after the COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on individual health and fitness routines globally. Resistance training, in particular, has become increasingly popular among men and women looking to maintain or improve their physical fitness during the pandemic. However, using Anabolic Steroids (AS) for performance enhancement in resistance training has known adverse effects. Thus, this study aimed to explore the prevalence of AS use among men and women resistance training practitioners after the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted among 3,603 resistance training practitioners (1,855 men and 1,748 women) in various geographical locations impacted by COVID-19. The participants were asked to complete self-administered questionnaires, which included questions regarding demographic information, training habits, and current or prior usage of AS. The data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software and the chi-square method, with a significance level of (P < 0.05).ResultsA total of 3603 men and women resistance training practitioners completed the survey. In the study, 53.05% of men and 41.99% of women used anabolic and androgenic steroids. Of those men who used steroids, 29.47% used Testosterone, while 31.20% of women used Winstrol. Additionally, 50.30% of men used steroids via injection, while 49.05% of women used them orally. According to the study, 49.99% of the participants had 6 to 12 months of experience with resistance training, and 64.25% of them underwent three training sessions per week. The analysis using the χ2 test did not reveal any significant difference between men and women in terms of duration of bodybuilding, frequency per week, and engagement in other activities.ConclusionThis study shows that a significant proportion of men and women resistance training practitioners used AS, particularly among young adults with limited training experience. Thus, there is a need for targeted education and awareness campaigns to address the hazards of AS use and promote healthy training habits during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The dichotomy between health and drug abuse in bodybuilding.

Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate the expansion and prevalence of anabolic steroid use by examining the divergent effects between health and drug abuse and to create more awareness around the harmful consequences of these drugs when administered at abusive levels. Methods: A focused and concise literature search was conducted, and 101 high-quality articles were included in the review. Results: The findings underscore the adverse health risks of steroid abuse, emphasizing the stark contrast between health and drug abuse. Conclusions: While steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs can yield muscle growth, strength and even fat loss, abusing these substances can lead to adverse health outcomes. Furthermore, within the fitness subculture, particularly in the realm of bodybuilding, steroid abuse fosters an atmosphere of cheating and deception, frequently downplaying or ignoring the negative and sometimes deadly consequences it brings.

Prevalence of anabolic steroid use in recreational users of gyms in the Monterrey metropolitan area

Prevalence of anabolic steroid use in recreational users of gyms in the Monterrey metropolitan area

A review on the health hazards of anabolic steroids

Summary In 1935, testosterone was finally isolated and synthesized, and testosterone-analogs soon entered the world of sports. Today, the use of these performance-enhancing agents is no longer confined to the elite sports milieu, and the lifetime prevalence of anabolic steroid use among men is estimated to be around 6%. Unfortunately, these drugs are not without side effects, and the most common somatic adverse drug reactions are gynaecomastia, infertility, testicular dysfunction, and acne. Furthermore, the use of AAS is associated with a variety of psychiatric disorders and antisocial behaviour.

Prevalence of anabolic steroid use and associated factors among body-builders in Hamadan, West province of Iran.

Androgenic-anabolic steroids (AAS) are abused by a growing number of bodybuilders. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to determine prevalence and patterns of AAS use by bodybuilders in Hamadan, western Iran. In this cross-sectional study, participants were recruited from five gym clubs in two area of Hamadan (a total of 10 clubs). Twenty-five bodybuilders from each club were administered. Questions investigating demographic information, sport history, education level, general knowledge about AAS, and their side effects were asked. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 16. The frequency of AAS use was 28.8% (72/250). Fifty-four percent of users were 25 years or younger. AAS abuse showed a significant association with duration of exercise. The drugs were suggested mostly from peers (43.1%) and coaches (36.1%). The most commonly consumed anabolic steroid was testosterone (66.7%). The most commonly reported AAS side effect was acne (18.1%). There was not significant association between general knowledge about side effects of ASS and their use. The results of current survey indicate that frequency of ASS use is high in adolescents and young adult bodybuilders. Well educated bodybuilders have a higher prevalence of abuse. Awareness about the side effects of drugs is not deterrent factor for their abuse. Iranian Ministry of Sport and the Youth, and the National Council for Youth, should be urged to conduct more effective prevention strategies.

The Effect of Anabolic Steroids on the Gastrointestinal System, Kidneys, and Adrenal Glands

Over the past several decades we have seen an increase in the prevalence of anabolic steroid use by athletes. Because use of anabolic steroids is illicit, much of our knowledge of their side effects is derived from case reports, retrospective studies, or comparisons with studies in other similar patient groups. It has been shown that high-dose anabolic steroids have an effect on lowering high-density lipoprotein, increasing low-density lipoprotein, and increasing the atherogenic-promoting apolipoprotein A. Steroid abuse can also be hepatotoxic, promoting disturbances such as biliary stasis, peliosis hepatis, and even hepatomas, which are all usually reversible upon discontinuation. Suppression of the hypothalamic adrenal axis can also lead to profound adrenal changes that are also reversible with time. Although rare, renal side effects have also been documented, leading to acute renal failure and even Wilms' tumors in isolated cases. Much of our knowledge of these potentially severe but usually limited side effects is confounded by use of combinations of different steroid preparations and by the concomitant use with other substances. Physicians must target their efforts at counseling adolescents and other athletes about the potential harms of androgenic anabolic steroids and the legal options to improve strength and performance.

Prevalence and Perceived Prevalence of Anabolic Steroid Use Among College-Aged Students

2377 Anabolic steroids (AS) have traditionally been used to increase physical performance; however evidence indicates that AS are increasingly being used for the purpose of enhancing physical appearance. The increased use of AS for purposes other than athletic performance suggests a potential growing health concern no longer isolated specifically to athletes. PURPOSE: This study investigated the prevalence and perceived prevalence of AS use among college-aged students at a Midwestern university. METHODS: A survey was conducted of 485 college undergraduates (219 Males, 266 Females). The questionnaire consisted of three demographic, six prevalence, and three behavioral intention questions. Behavioral intention questions were developed based on principles taken from the Theory of Reasoned Action. Demographics and prevalence rates were analyzed using frequency statistics. Correlations were used to compare actual behavior and behavioral intentions. Significance was set at p < .05. RESULTS: Prevalence data indicated that 9% [n = 42 (m = 37, f = 5)] used AS. Of users, 7% were freshman, 31% sophomores, 26% juniors and 36% seniors. Forty-three percent of users and non-users indicated they personally knew one or more other students who used AS. Additionally, 76% of users and 36% of non-users suggested they could obtain AS in two weeks or less. Seventy-five percent of users and 3% of non-users were somewhat likely or likely to use AS in the future. Of users, 21% used AS only once, 26% used AS between 2 and 4 times, 17% used more than 10 times. Importantly, 7% indicated they used AS because their friends used AS, 45% wanted to enhance their physical appearance and 48% wanted to increase physical performance. Correlation between behavioral intention to use or not use and actual behavior of using and non-using was significant (r = .690, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest AS use among non-athletes may actually be greater than among athletes. This potential increase in AS use illustrates a rising health concern and suggests the need for appropriate interventions.

Prevalence and Perceived Prevalence of Anabolic Steroid Use Among College-Aged Students

2377 Anabolic steroids (AS) have traditionally been used to increase physical performance; however evidence indicates that AS are increasingly being used for the purpose of enhancing physical appearance. The increased use of AS for purposes other than athletic performance suggests a potential growing health concern no longer isolated specifically to athletes. PURPOSE: This study investigated the prevalence and perceived prevalence of AS use among college-aged students at a Midwestern university. METHODS: A survey was conducted of 485 college undergraduates (219 Males, 266 Females). The questionnaire consisted of three demographic, six prevalence, and three behavioral intention questions. Behavioral intention questions were developed based on principles taken from the Theory of Reasoned Action. Demographics and prevalence rates were analyzed using frequency statistics. Correlations were used to compare actual behavior and behavioral intentions. Significance was set at p < .05. RESULTS: Prevalence data indicated that 9% [n = 42 (m = 37, f = 5)] used AS. Of users, 7% were freshman, 31% sophomores, 26% juniors and 36% seniors. Forty-three percent of users and non-users indicated they personally knew one or more other students who used AS. Additionally, 76% of users and 36% of non-users suggested they could obtain AS in two weeks or less. Seventy-five percent of users and 3% of non-users were somewhat likely or likely to use AS in the future. Of users, 21% used AS only once, 26% used AS between 2 and 4 times, 17% used more than 10 times. Importantly, 7% indicated they used AS because their friends used AS, 45% wanted to enhance their physical appearance and 48% wanted to increase physical performance. Correlation between behavioral intention to use or not use and actual behavior of using and non-using was significant (r = .690, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest AS use among non-athletes may actually be greater than among athletes. This potential increase in AS use illustrates a rising health concern and suggests the need for appropriate interventions.

Steroid use among adolescents: findings from Project EAT

To explore the prevalence and correlates of using steroids for the purpose of gaining muscle among adolescent males and females. More specifically, the study objectives were to: (a) assess the prevalence of anabolic steroid use in a large population-based sample of adolescent males and females; and (b) identify personal, socio-environmental, and behavioral factors related to the health of adolescents that use anabolic steroids. The study population included 4746 middle and high school students from St. Paul/Minneapolis public schools who completed surveys and anthropometric measurements as part of a population-based study of eating patterns and weight concerns among teenagers (Project EAT: Eating Among Teens). Steroid use and a range of socio-environmental, personal, and behavioral factors hypothesized to be correlates of steroid use were assessed. Associations were examined separately among males and females through comparisons of means (unadjusted and adjusted for grade-level and race) for continuous variables, and percentages, and odds ratios for dichotomized variables. Steroid use was more common in males (5.4%, vs. 2.9% of females), non-Caucasians (especially Hmong, a subset of the Asian-American population), and in middle school students (as compared to high school). In males, steroid use was associated with poorer self-esteem and higher rates of depressed mood and attempted suicide, poorer knowledge and attitudes about health, greater participation in sports that emphasize weight and shape, greater parental concern about weight, and higher rates of disordered eating and substance use. Among females, steroid use was less consistent in its associations with other variables, although overall, a similar pattern of results emerged. Anabolic steroid use in adolescence is associated with poorer health-related attitudes and behaviors and exposure to socio-environmental influences encouraging weight preoccupation. Attention needs to be directed toward youth who may be at increased risk for steroid use within clinical and community-based settings

Anabolic steroid use by male and female middle school students.

The prevalence of anabolic steroid use by high school and college students has been reported in the literature. However, rumors persist regarding the use of steroids by younger populations. To assess the extent of steroid use by male and female middle school students and to explore their attitudes and perceptions about these drugs. Methods. A confidential self-report questionnaire was administered to 466 male and 499 female students between 9 and 13 years of age (mean +/- SD, 11.4 +/- 0.9 years) in 5th, 6th, and 7th grades from four public middle schools in Massachusetts. The number of students reporting steroid use and differences between users' and nonusers' underlying attitudes and perceptions about these drugs were evaluated. The response rate was 82% (965/1175 eligible). Results indicated that 2.7% of all middle school students reported using steroids; 2.6% were males and 2.8% were females. When steroid users were compared with nonusers, 47% versus 43% thought that steroids make muscles bigger; 58% versus 31% thought that steroids make muscles stronger; 31% versus 11% thought that steroids improve athletic performance; 23% versus 13% thought that steroids make one look better; 23% versus 9% knew someone their own age who currently took steroids; 38% versus 4% were asked by someone to take steroids; 54% versus 91% thought that steroids were bad for them; and 35% versus 2% indicated that they would take steroids in the future. Additional analyses determined steroid user involvement in sports and activities. The results of this study suggest that the problem of illicit steroid use extends to children and young adolescents and that a segment of this population is mindful of the potential physiologic effects of steroids. This information will be useful to pediatricians, sport authorities, and school teachers whose guidance will become increasingly more important as steroid educational interventions for male and female middle school students are developed.

Intervention and Prevention of Steroid Use in Adolescents

Athletes with a higher intent to use anabolic steroids were similar to students who indicated no predisposition to use steroids on economic, academic, and physical measures. They had similar understandings of anabolic steroid effects, and their self-rated understandings of how to weight train and of sports nutrition were similar. In addition, the influence of the coaches and the media and the perceived prevalence of anabolic steroid use were not different between the higher- and lower-intent students. These results demonstrated several significant differences. Higher-intent students had higher levels of alcohol and marijuana use, which suggest that those items might be tackled concurrently. These athletes had higher hostility, impulsivity, and a win-at-all-costs attitude. Despite similar physical measures, they had a high body image, but were less satisfied with their current weight. These findings underscored the importance of using nutrition and appropriate training as effective alternatives to anabolic steroids. Higher-intent students had greater peer tolerance of drug use and less parental influence not to use drugs, which implies that a peer-led small group format might be important to dispel the perceived peer tolerance. Including a parent-based component, one that emphasizes a disapproval of drug use also could be effective. Higher-intent athletes had less ability to refuse an offer of steroids. The dynamics of turning down steroids may differ from that of other illicit substances so that training in refusal skills specific to steroids is needed. These differences provide a needs assessment to identify curricular components for an intervention to permit anabolic steroid use. The sports team may be a unique educational setting because it can capitalize on peer ties, the coach's influence, and an athletes' motivation to improve, to prevent drug use, and to promote healthy behaviors.

Anabolic-Steroid Use, Strength Training, and Multiple Drug Use Among Adolescents in the United States

This study examined the relationships between anabolic-steroid use and the use of other drugs, sports participation, strength training, and school performance among a nationally representative sample of US high school students. Randomized survey data from the 1991 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Public and private schools in the 50 United States and District of Columbia. A total of 12,272 9th through 12th grade students. Prevalence of anabolic-steroid use. The frequency of anabolic-steroid use was significantly associated with the frequency of use of cocaine, the use of other drugs such as amphetamines and heroin, tobacco smoking, and alcohol use. The weighted prevalences of anabolic-steroid use were higher among male (4.08%) than female students (1.2%). Students living in the South (3.46%) reported higher prevalences than students in the Midwest (3.0%), West (2.02%), or Northeast (1.71%). Students with self-perceived below-average academic performances (5.10%) and students reporting injected drug use also reported higher anabolic-steroid use (51.57%). Based on a multiple logistic regression, the following variables were found to be significant predictors of anabolic-steroid use: injectable drug use (odds ratio [OR], 17.86), use of other drugs (OR, 4.19), male gender (OR, 2.79), alcohol use (OR, 1.38), and strength training (OR, 1.73). The variables that were significantly associated with anabolic-steroid use varied by gender and by region of the country. These data suggest that adolescent anabolic-steroid users in this country are more likely to engage in strength training, injected drug use, and the use of multiple drugs, even after controlling for sports participation and poorer academic performance. These data confirm previous findings of an association between multiple drug use and anabolic-steroid use. Also, engaging in strength-training exercises continued to be associated with anabolic-steroid use after controlling for drug use and other predictors.

Anabolic steroids in sport and exercise

Part I. History and Incidence of Use Chapter 1. Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids: A Historical Perspective and Definition Charles D. Kochakian and Charles E. Yesalis Endocrine Function of the Testis Androgens: Multiplicity of Male Hormones Anabolic Activity Partial Dissociation of Anabolic Activity From Androgenic Activity Anabolic Steroids Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids Therapeutic and Other Applications Veterinary Applications Summary References Chapter 2. History of Anabolic Steroid Use in Sport and Exercise Charles E. Yesalis, Stephen P. Courson, and James E. Wright Olympic Sports Female Athletes National Doping Programs Professional Football College High School Other Sports Conclusions References Chapter 3. Incidence of Anabolic Steroid Use: A Discussion of Methodological Issues Charles E. Yesalis, Michael S. Bahrke, Andrea N. Kopstein, and Camille K. Barsukiewicz Investigative Journalism Government Investigations Drug Testing Surveys Current Trends Methodological Issues Recommendations References Chapter 4. Prevention of Anabolic Steroid Use Linn Goldberg and Diane L. Elliot Scope of the Problem Drug-Testing Policy Educational Strategies AS Education: The ATLAS Study The ATLAS Program Conclusions References Part II. Effects, Dependence, and Treatment Issues Chapter 5. Effect of Anabolic Steroid Use on Body Composition and Physical Performance Karl E. Friedl Variations in Physiological Response to Anabolic Steroids Comparing Anabolic Steroid Dose and Effects Empirical Strength Studies Composition of Steroid-Induced Body Weight Gain Body Composition Changes After Cessation of Anabolic Steroid Use Neuromuscular and Neuropsychological Effects of Anabolic Steroid Use Sustainment of Androgenicity During Demanding Physical Training Countermeasures for Stress-Induced Catabolic Hormones Improved Aerobic Endurance Performance Conclusions References Chapter 6. Effects of Anabolic Steroids on Physical Health Karl E. Friedl Distinctions Between Types and Doses of Anabolic Steroids Case Reports of Adverse Effects in Anabolic Steroid-Using Athletes Suspected Disease Associations Stroke: A New Association With Anabolic Steroids Prostate: An Androgen Target and Potential for Disease Musculoskeletal Injuries Problems Indirectly Associated With Anabolic Steroids Research on Health Effects Conclusions References Chapter 7. Women and Anabolic Steroids Diane L. Elliot and Linn Goldberg Normal Physiological Effects of Testosterone in Women and Men Prevalence of Anabolic Steroid Use in Females Physical Effects of Anabolic Steroids on Women Psychological Effects of Anabolic Steroids on Females DHEA: A Weak Androgen Physique-Altering Drug Use References Chapter 8. Psychological Effects of Endogenous Testosterone and Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids Michael S. Bahrke Anabolic Steroids and Aggressive Behavior in Animals Effect of Endogenous Testosterone Levels on Human Moods and Behaviors Estrogen-Related Aggression Contraceptive Studies and Moods Effects of Anabolic Steroids on Athletes' Moods and Behavior Effects of Anabolic Steroids on Psychological Dependence and Withdrawal Methodological Issues Conclusions References Chapter 9. Anabolic Steroids: Potential for Physical and Psychological Dependence Kirk J. Brower The Nature of Drug Abuse and Dependence Evidence for Dependence on Anabolic Steroids Mechanisms of Anabolic Steroid Dependence Predictors of Anabolic Steroid Dependence Course of Dependence on Anabolic Steroids Prevention and Treatment References Chapter 10. Assessment and Treatment of Anabolic Steroid Abuse, Dependence, and Withdrawal Kirk J. Brower Identification and Assessment Treatment of Withdrawal Conclusions References Chapter 11. Legal Aspects of Anabolic Steroid Use and Abuse Carol Cole Kleinman and C.E. Petit Direct Legal Consequences of Steroid Abuse Indirect Legal Consequences of Steroid Abuse: Criminal Behavior The Proper Role of the Legal System Regarding Steroid Abuse References Part III. Testing and Societal Alternatives Chapter 12. Evolution and Politics of Drug Testing Jim Ferstle The Year of Scandals History of Drug Testing The Roots of Modern Drug Testing Challenges and Limitations in Drug Testing Causes for Criticism of Drug Testing Possible Solutions Outside the IOC Athletes' Rights in Drug Testing 1984: The L.A. Cover-Up More Secrets Testing Issues in Pro and U.S. Collegiate Sports Politics and Pharmacological Warfare Drug Testing and the Media References Chapter 13. Drug Testing and Anabolic Steroids R. Craig Kammerer Blood or Urine Testing? Structures, Chemistry, and Metabolism Technology of Anabolic Steroid Testing Philosophy of Anabolic Steroid Testing Costs of Anabolic Steroid Testing Circumventing Positive Test Results Use of Other Substances Future Directions in Anabolic Steroid Testing References Chapter 14. Societal Alternatives Charles E. Yesalis, Michael S. Bahrke, and James E. Wright Legalization: An End to Hypocrisy? Interdiction: A Question of Cost-Effectiveness Education: Is Anybody Listening? Conclusion: Our Values Must Change References

Prevalence of anabolic steroid use by male and female adolescents

This study was performed to determine the prevalence of anabolic steroid use among male and female high school students. A total of 1,010 questionnaires were distributed in five high schools in a relatively affluent school district (Group I, 510 surveys with a 92.4% response rate) and five high schools in a relatively less affluent school district (Group II, 500 surveys with an 86.0% response rate). Three percent of all high school students reported using anabolic steroids: 5.0% of males and 1.4% of females. Among Group I students, 5.9% of all athletes reported using anabolic steroids, whereas only 1.5% of all Group II athletes admitted using them. A 10.2% usage of anabolic steroids among Group I male athletes was observed, but only 2.8% of Group II male athletes reported their use. The median age for anabolic steroid consumption was 17 yr. The primary source of anabolic steroids was the black market (85.2%), while physicians directly supplied anabolic steroids to only 7.4% of the adolescents. It appears that within the high school adolescent population, Group I male athletes are the primary consumers of these drugs, with a reported 10.2% prevalence.

Anabolic Steroid Use Among Male High School Seniors

To the Editor. — We were interested in the study by Buckley et al 1 concerning the prevalence of anabolic steroid use among male high school seniors. We believe that, because questionnaires were administered by students' homeroom teachers, underreporting may have been present. Although the authors contend this is a normal testing environment, it is not an environment conducive to confidentiality regarding possible unethical or illegal activity. Secondly, we wonder if supplements sold in health food stores and through magazines as having anabolic properties were differentiated from true anabolic steroids. Why were high school seniors, identified as the user group, were greater than 19 years old, as these college-age individuals are usually not still in high school? Lastly, we agree that educational interventions should begin as early in life as possible, but have concerns about the efficacy of such programs. With regard to other preventive measures, such as seat belt

Estimated prevalence of anabolic steroid use among male high school seniors

Estimated prevalence of anabolic steroid use among male high school seniors

Estimated Prevalence of Anabolic Steroid Use Among Male High School Seniors

The use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AS) is perceived by the media, by segments of the sports medicine and athletic communities, and by the public to have grown to epidemic proportions. Unfortunately, the incidence and prevalence of AS use among elite, amateur, and recreational athletes is poorly documented. This study was designed to help identify AS use patterns among the male portion of the general adolescent population. The overall participation rate on a schoolwide basis was 68.7% and on an individual basis reached 50.3%. Participants in this investigation were 12th-grade male students (N = 3403) in 46 private and public high schools across the nation who completed a questionnaire that established current or previous use of AS as well as user and nonuser characteristics. Results indicate that 6.6% of 12th grade male students use or have used AS and that over two thirds of the user group initiated use when they were 16 years of age or younger. Approximately 21% of users reported that a health professional was their primary source. The evidence indicates that educational intervention strategies should begin as early as junior high school; the intervention should not be directed only toward those individuals who participate in school-based athletics.