Anabolic steroids increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in young people

by George Papadimas | 22 August 2019  

 

 

Anabolic steroids may have a permanent effect on the heart based on a recent study if taken for two or more years.  

 

A study published in the American Heart Association's journal Circulation investigated the effects of long-term steroid use on the heart. Anabolic steroids are synthetic substances derived from the male hormone testosterone, which increases muscle size and strength. While steroids can be used to treat certain health problems, such as delayed puberty, many young people have taken them without a prescription to enhance their athletic performance or appearance. Taking large doses illegally can have serious negative health effects including on the heart.  

 

In the recent study conducted in America, researchers used imaging tests to compare the heart function of steroid users versus non-users.  

 

After analyzing the results, the researchers found that steroid users had significantly impaired heart function compared to those who never used steroids. (Heart function was significantly affected.)  

 

They also found that steroid users had a significantly higher concentration of atherosclerotic plaque in the arteries than non-users. Atherosclerotic plaque accumulation is an indicator of cardiovascular disease.  

 

This is the first study of its kind to demonstrate the negative effects of long-term steroid use on the heart. According to the authors it should serve as a stark warning about the dangers of steroid use. This study shows that taking steroids, even for a short period of time, can cause permanent damage to the heart. The findings suggest that the more steroid use over time, the worse the heart damage will be. Experts hope these findings will lead to a reduction in steroid use.  

 

Source: Anabolic Steroids Increase Risk for Heart Disease in Young and MiddleAged Men