The risks of anabolic steroid use on cardiovascular health: a literature review

Abstract

The use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) has grown, especially among young people and bodybuilders, driven by aesthetic issues and social pressures. Originally developed to treat clinical conditions such as severe muscle loss, EAAs are now widely used non-therapeutically, leading to serious cardiovascular risks. Adverse effects include left ventricular hypertrophy, dyslipidemia, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis and even sudden death. Ventricular hypertrophy, characterized by thickening of the heart walls, results in arrhythmias and heart failure. Dyslipidemia, marked by an increase in LDL cholesterol and a reduction in HDL, accelerates the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Hypertension, common in EAA users, is aggravated by water retention and vascular resistance, and may persist even after stopping use. Cardiovascular damage, often irreversible, requires awareness and prevention. This study, based on a systematic review of the literature, highlights the need for educational campaigns and public policies to reduce the indiscriminate use of AAS. Health professionals must be aware of the risks and guide users regarding long-term complications, reinforcing the importance of continuous monitoring and lifestyle changes to mitigate damage.