The professor from the Cruzeiro do Sul University clarifies the main doubts on the merits
Summary
Brazil is the second most gym-going country for weight training, with 21% of the population, behind only India. However, according to ANVISA, the use of anabolic steroids grew by 45% between 2019 and 2021 and, as of 2023, the prescription of these drugs is prohibited.
With 21% of the population frequenting gyms, Brazil is second in the ranking of countries that most frequent spaces dedicated to physical activity, specifically bodybuilding. The country is second only to India, with 24%, according to a study published by CupomValido.com.br, with data from Numbeo, IBGE and Statista on the fitness market.
On the other hand, according to the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), the use of anabolic steroids grew by 45% between 2019 and 2021, alarming data for the damage to health that can be caused by the indiscriminate use of substances, according to professor Raphael Afonso, of the Physical Education course of the Universidade Cruzeiro do Sul, an institution of the Cruzeiro do Sul Educacional group.
“We can observe, for example, changes in the cardiovascular system. The heart is known to respond to signaling provided by anabolic steroids, which can promote changes in the organ in question. Changes in the blood, such as an increase in hematocrit (blood viscosity), are also commonly seen. Its indiscriminate use can compromise health, causing problems with some organic systems of those who use it”, explains the professor.
Clinical purposes
Despite being sold in pharmacies, anabolic steroids can only be sold for clinical purposes. From 2023, justified by the numerous risks to the physical integrity of the population, the prescription of anabolic steroids for aesthetic purposes or to increase sports performance is prohibited in Brazil.
Users experience problems such as acne, especially on the back; Hair loss and oily skin are the main events that can be observed dermatologically. However, delving deeper into the topic, we note that the effects can be different between men and women.
“The use of anabolic steroids ends up altering the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, i.e. the production of sexual hormones in the individual is compromised by the administration of the synthetic hormone. Men may experience changes in fertility and changes in libido. Women may present even greater problems, considering that anabolic steroids are basically based on testosterone, which is the male sex hormone. We found testosterone in women, but at low doses,” she says.
Psychological dependence
According to the expert, although they have not been proven to be addictive, anabolic steroids can cause psychological dependence.
“This happens because when the individual stops using the drug, he observes a reduction in physical performance and a reduction in muscle volume. This ends up impacting self-esteem and leading to chronic administration. Some specific drugs can alter mood, causing anxiety and irritability disorders,” explains Afonso.
Hormones act as chemical messengers, in this case it is essential to understand that, when this type of substance is ingested, tissues other than muscles can also be affected by the stimuli it causes.
Therefore, it is important to seek qualified professionals who can help with physical development and not use medications without proper medical supervision.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
