Use of anabolic-androgenic steroids among body builders in major gym centers in São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract

To estimate the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) among body builders of three - professionally equipped private gym in São Paulo, Brazil, body builders answered voluntary and anonimously a structured multiple itens questionnaire which was available for a week in these gym centers. The participants were informed in advance of the aim of the study. Of the 209 body builders attending (3% of the total), 19% had used AAS at some stage. The stratification of the results showed that 11% were composed of ex-user and 8% were of active users. Considering only male body builder the incidence of AAS was 24%. Stanozolol and nandrolone decanoate were the most commonly AAS used. The significant features of their profile were: the median age of users was 27 (25-29) years, predominantely males and motivation for using AAS was aesthetic with a high level of physical training. Food suplements as well as other drugs in association were used. Mainly AAS were bought in drugstores without prescriptions. Body builders considerered anabolic-androgenic steroids to be dangerous and that the adverse effects can be managed or avoided with other drugs or medical care. This study demonstrate the use of AAS among body builders and consequently the necessity of deep preventive and educationaly investigation among people exposed to AAS.