Endocrine Abstracts

Purpose: The use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) to improve fitness and increase muscle mass is widespread among athletes. Information regarding self-administered AAS used to enhance athletic performance or improve physical appearance is sparse and poorly documented in Saudi Arabia. The purpose of this study is to investigate the prevalence and motivation of AAS use and knowledge of its adverse effects among fitness centres visitors in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 541 male bodybuilders visiting fitness centres in the Eastern Province region of Saudi Arabia. Information on demographics, use of AAS and awareness about its adverse effects were collected using a self-administered questionnaire.

Results: The prevalence of AAS among bodybuilders in Eastern Province was 21.3%. The percentage was highest among those in the 21–30 years age group and those who received higher education (63.8% and 66.4% respectively). The most common types of AAS used were Oxandrolone (Anavar) (61.9%), Methandienone (Dianabol) (46%) and Nandrolone-decanoate (Deca-Durabolin) (45.1%). Participants were not aware of the adverse effects of anabolic steroids use. Side effects experienced by 77% AAS users; includes depression in 47%, acne was reported in 32.7%, hair loss in 14.2% and sexual dysfunction in 10.7%. On the other hand, 88.5% of the AAS users reported fast muscle gain, and more than half of them noticed increasing in muscle strength. Despite experienced some side effects, 40% of the users has recommended others to use anabolic steroids.

Conclusion: AAS abuse is a common problem among young bodybuilders associated with lack of knowledge regarding its adverse effects. Health educational programs are needed to increase the awareness of the community towards this problem. The information provided in this study should help clinicians to develop appropriate intervention strategies for AAS abuse.