Anabolic androgenic steroid use is associated with ventricular dysfunction on cardiac MRI in strength trained athletes.

What was studied

This observational cardiac-MRI study compared heart structure and function across non-athletes, strength-endurance athletes, and strength athletes with or without reported AAS use.

Who / model studied

The cohort included 156 men aged 18–40: 52 non-athletes, 52 strength-endurance athletes, and 52 strength athletes.

Studied dose & schedule

Participants underwent cardiac MRI; AAS exposure was reported rather than assigned. The study did not report a standardized compound, dose, route, or frequency.

What the study found

AAS-using strength athletes had lower left/right ventricular ejection fractions (51/48%) than other groups (55–57/51–52%) and lower E/A ratios, indicating impaired systolic and filling measures.

Limitations & context

This cross-sectional comparison relied on reported AAS use and cannot establish causality. Specific drug exposure and clinical events were not evaluated.

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