Prevalence and risk factors of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) abuse among adolescents and young adults in Poland

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) abuse among adolescent and young adults in Poland. Method: 3687 men (48.2%) and women (51.8%), median age 23 (interquartile range 19-30 years) participated in a survey via a pop-up window which appeared on two popular Polish internet portals during one month. Questions concerning their body image, exercise behaviour, education level and use of anabolic-androgenic steroids were asked. Results: The prevalence of anabolic-androgenic steroids use was 6.2% among males and 2.9% among females. Male AAS users, compared to non-users, were more often concerned about their physical appearance, were less educated and often engaged in some sport activity. Among female AAS users, no significant differences concerning self-body image satisfaction or participation in sports were found. However, compared to non-users, female AAS users were less educated. Conclusion: The abuse of AAS is a reality in Poland and may become a serious health concern among adolescents and young adults.