Anabolic-androgenic steroids and cardiovascular risk

This project aims to explore the cardiovascular risks associated with long-term use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). AAS are synthetic derivates of the male sex hormone testosterone, commonly used by men to enhance physical appearance or performance.

Prolonged use of AAS has been linked to adverse cardiovascular effects, including high blood pressure, left ventricular hypertrophy and myocardial dysfunction. Using echocardiography, our follow-up study investigates changes in cardiac structure and function over time to better understand the long-term cardiovascular impact of AAS use. The findings aim to raise awareness of these risks, guide preventive measures, and inform clinical practice.

Publications

Severe biventricular cardiomyopathy in both current and former long-term users of anabolic-androgenic steroids (Link to publication)
Elevated interleukin 8 and matrix metalloproteinase 9 levels are associated with myocardial pathology in users of anabolic-androgenic steroids (Link to publication)

Researchers involved

Rang Abdullah, MD/PhD fellow, UIO/OUS
Main supervisor: Vibeke Marie Almaas, MD/PhD, OUS
Co-supervisor: Kristina Haugaa, MD/Professor, OUS/UiO

Collaboration

This project is conducted in collaboration with partners at Oslo University Hospital, including the Departments of Cardiology, Endocrinology and Mental Health & Addiction.

The Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Research Group, OUS

Group leader: Astrid Kristine Bjørnebekk, Senior researcher/PhD, OUS