New research from the University of Birmingham and German scientists has revealed a troubling link between anabolic steroid use and a higher risk of a serious heart condition called atrial fibrillation.
This discovery is especially concerning for young men who use steroids to build muscle, often influenced by trends seen on social media platforms like TikTok.
Anabolic steroids are man-made versions of the hormone testosterone. They are commonly used in bodybuilding to increase muscle mass and strength.
While these substances can change physical appearance quickly, the new study, led by Dr. Laura Sommerfeld from UKE Hamburg, highlights a hidden danger: steroids may harm the heart, especially in people who already have certain genetic risks.
The research focused on a heart disease called arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, or ARVC. ARVC affects how the cells in the heart muscle connect to each other. These connections are important for keeping the heart muscle stable and working properly. This disease tends to be more common and more serious in men.
The study found that using anabolic steroids for just six weeks can damage these important cell connections and also interfere with sodium channels in the heart.
These problems slow down the heart’s electrical signals, especially in the upper chambers called the atria. When these signals are disrupted, it can lead to atrial fibrillation—a type of irregular heartbeat that increases the risk of blood clots, stroke, and even heart failure.
Professor Larissa Fabritz, a co-author of the study, explained that high levels of testosterone can make heart diseases like ARVC worse. These diseases can cause dangerous heart rhythm problems and even sudden death. This makes steroid misuse a serious risk, particularly for young men who might not know they’re already at risk due to their genes.
This research is an important warning for anyone considering anabolic steroids for muscle growth. The risks go far beyond muscle strain or acne. They can directly affect the heart and cause life-threatening conditions.
With the growing popularity of steroid use, especially among young people influenced by social media trends, these findings are more important than ever.
It’s also a reminder that not all substances are harmless just because they’re available online or talked about in fitness communities. Other research has shown that even some herbal supplements may cause irregular heart rhythms. At the same time, some foods—like eggs and yogurt—have been linked to better heart health and lower risks of heart disease.
Published in The Journal of Physiology, this study underlines how lifestyle choices, especially the misuse of anabolic steroids, can have lasting and dangerous effects on heart health. Looking good on the outside should never come at the cost of harming the heart.
If you’re thinking about taking supplements or using substances to change your body, it’s always wise to talk with a doctor first. Staying informed and making careful choices is the best way to protect your heart and your overall health.
If you care about heart health, please read studies about the blood thinner drug that can prevent strokes in people with hidden heart issues and new guidelines on daily aspirin for heart attack and stroke prevention.
For more about heart health, please read studies about This diabetes drug may increase heart failure risk and Common diabetes drug can also prevent heart and kidney diseases.
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