A significant rise in steroid use among fitness enthusiasts has been documented, with estimates suggesting that usage rates can vary from as low as 6 percent to an alarming 29 percent in different countries. This trend has been particularly influenced by fitness influencers on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, who often share their experiences with steroid use. According to Timothy Piatkowski, a researcher at Griffith University in Australia, the landscape surrounding steroid use has evolved over the past decade, with many influencers openly discussing their usage and positioning themselves as experts.
Piatkowski notes that while some influencers acknowledge the health risks associated with steroids, their understanding and communication of these risks can vary greatly. For instance, certain influencers refer to themselves as “trenfluencers,” proudly advocating for trenbolone, a steroid commonly used in veterinary medicine. This has led millions of individuals seeking to enhance their physique to question the safety of steroid use, potentially leading them into dangerous territory.
Research on the long-term health implications of steroids remains limited. Piatkowski emphasizes the challenge posed by a disconnect between the dosages and usage patterns evaluated in clinical studies and those commonly employed by users in real-world scenarios. In response, he and his colleagues are engaging directly with steroid users to facilitate studies that reflect actual usage trends and risks.
Understanding Steroid Effects and Risks
Anabolic steroids, the most frequently used type among gym-goers, are potent synthetic derivatives of testosterone. They function by targeting hormone receptors that encourage the development of male characteristics, particularly in muscle and bone tissue. According to Channa Jayasena from Imperial College London, these substances are designed to promote muscle growth and enhance physical performance.
While anabolic steroids are prescribed for medical conditions such as muscle-wasting diseases, non-medical use often deviates from these guidelines. Users typically engage in practices such as “stacking” various drugs or alternating between high doses and lower doses to mitigate side effects, often without adequate scientific backing. This lack of reliable information can lead users to seek guidance from online forums or social media influencers instead of medical professionals.
The documented health risks of unregulated steroid use are concerning. Anabolic steroids are associated with cardiovascular complications, including elevated blood pressure and altered cholesterol levels, which can lead to conditions such as cardiomyopathy. A population study from Denmark revealed that anabolic steroid users face a threefold increase in mortality risk compared to non-users, with cardiovascular disease and cancer being the leading causes of death.
Psychosocial effects, often referred to as “roid rage,” are another serious concern. Users may experience heightened aggression and psychological disturbances, which can lead to depression and suicidal thoughts, particularly after ceasing steroid use. Jayasena’s research indicates that about 30 percent of men who stop taking steroids report experiencing major depression or suicidal ideation.
Exploring Safer Practices and Research Gaps
Given the extensive list of potential health risks, many steroid users are exploring ways to mitigate these dangers. Some adopt protocols that involve specific dosages or timing strategies to reduce adverse effects. However, comprehensive studies examining the safety of these protocols are scarce. Piatkowski highlights the need for longitudinal studies that can track users’ health over time, providing better insights into the risks associated with varying usage patterns.
Clinicians like Greg James from Kratos Medical in Cardiff reveal that some patients are even experimenting with combining steroids with appetite-suppressing peptides. James emphasizes the lack of long-term safety data available to guide such practices, leaving both users and professionals in a precarious position.
Researchers are beginning to engage directly with steroid users, treating them as valuable sources of information rather than just patients. In a recent study, Piatkowski and his team discovered that over 20 percent of steroid samples sourced from users were contaminated with harmful substances such as lead and arsenic, and many were improperly dosed. This underscores the urgent need for more rigorous research to ensure user safety.
The changing landscape of steroid usage, coupled with the fast-paced nature of social media, poses a significant challenge to researchers and healthcare providers. By collaborating with influencers and users, the aim is to foster safer practices and promote informed decision-making within these communities. Piatkowski stresses the importance of legitimizing knowledge in these circles, as this could lead to improved health outcomes and a better understanding of the risks associated with steroid use.
