Influence of Knowledge and Beliefs on Consumption of Performance Enhancing Agents in North-Western Saudi Arabia

In 2017, a study surveyed 1,200 individuals in north-western Saudi Arabia to understand the influence of knowledge and beliefs on the consumption of performance-enhancing agents (PEAs). The study found that 32% of participants used PEAs, with males (37%) using them more than females (27%). The most common reason for usage was to improve physical appearance (58%), followed by enhancing sports performance (42%). There was a significant correlation between the level of knowledge about the harmful effects of PEAs and their usage, with those having more knowledge being less likely to use them. The study suggested that increasing public awareness about the potential risks of PEAs could help reduce their consumption.