FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH ANABOLIC STEROID USE BY EXERCISE ENTHUSIASTS

ABSTRACT Introduction Synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) were developed with the purpose of obtaining drugs capable of increasing protein synthesis associated with a lower degree of virilization. Its use is common among bodybuilders who aim to increase physical strength and muscle mass in the short term. However, AAS cause side effects, which restrict their therapeutic use. Objective To identify factors associated with AAS use by exercise enthusiasts at gyms in São Luís, MA. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out at 17 gyms. The sample totaled 723 exercise enthusiasts, who answered a structured questionnaire with multiple choice questions related to their lifestyle and the consumption of nutritional supplements and AAS use. Logistic regression analysis was used to verify the association of socioeconomic, demographic and behavioral factors with AAS use. Results Of the 723 exercise enthusiasts, 10.65% reported having used AAS. Of these, 97.4% declared their awareness of some side effect caused by AAS use. Factors associated with AAS use were: being male, age between 20 and 29 years, consumption of food supplements and participation in exercise for over a year. Conclusion The prevalence of AAS use by exercise enthusiasts at gyms in São Luís is high, and the risk factors identified enable us to target specific populations with preventive actions. Level of Evidence IIC; Cross-sectional study.