URGENT UPDATE: New data reveals that steroid use among gym-goers is alarmingly high, with estimates ranging from 6% to an astonishing 29% across various nations. Just announced, researchers from Griffith University in Australia are sounding the alarm on the rising prevalence of steroids in fitness culture, particularly among influencers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Recent findings show that many fitness influencers openly admit to steroid use, framing themselves as knowledgeable guides for their followers. Timothy Piatkowski, a researcher at Griffith University, emphasizes the urgent need for awareness of the potential health risks linked to steroid consumption. “Unfortunately, the level of clinical knowledge and critical thinking varies significantly in these groups,” he warns.
As millions seek to bulk up and enhance their physiques, questions surrounding the safety of these substances intensify. Influencers often downplay the risks, with some adopting the moniker “trenfluencers,” indicating their promotion of trenbolone, a steroid originally designed for livestock. This alarming trend has led to a dangerous landscape where unregulated advice and substance use flourish.
The appeal of steroids lies in their ability to promote rapid muscle growth and enhanced performance. However, the long-term health risks remain unclear, as Piatkowski notes that research on the real-world use of these substances is lacking. “We need more longitudinal studies to better understand the impacts,” he states, highlighting the gap between clinical trials and actual user practices.
The consequences of unregulated steroid use are severe. Anabolic steroids are linked to increased cardiovascular risks, including hypertension and elevated cholesterol levels. A Danish study found that steroid users had a threefold higher risk of death compared to non-users. Piatkowski emphasizes that this mirrors risks associated with cocaine use.
Psychosocial effects are also substantial, with reports of aggression, mania, and in extreme cases, suicide linked to high-dose steroid use. Nearly 30% of men who cease steroid use experience major depression or suicidal thoughts, a troubling statistic that underscores the immediate need for better support and education.
In response to these growing concerns, researchers are engaging directly with users to create relevant studies and identify safer protocols for steroid use. Piatkowski’s team recently found that over 20% of steroid samples sourced from users were contaminated with harmful substances, revealing the necessity for stringent testing and regulation.
Despite the risks, many users continue to seek advice from social media influencers rather than medical professionals, which complicates the landscape further. Greg James, a clinician at Kratos Medical in Cardiff, UK, notes that patients are increasingly combining steroids with other medications, raising further safety concerns.
As this situation develops, experts urge users to reconsider their sources of information and approach steroid use with caution. The need for informed and scientifically-backed strategies is more critical than ever.
In the coming weeks, ongoing studies and collaborations between researchers and users aim to shed light on the safest practices for steroid use. Piatkowski advocates for a collaborative approach, stating, “Elevating and legitimizing knowledge in these communities is incredibly important.”
Stay informed as we continue to monitor this urgent health issue affecting millions worldwide.