The Physiological Effects of Anabolic Steroids on the Human Body

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), synthetic derivatives of testosterone, are used medically for certain conditions but are often abused for muscle-building and performance enhancement. While they increase muscle protein synthesis, AAS abuse leads to numerous side effects, including male-pattern hair loss, gynecomastia, infertility, and severe cardiovascular issues. Women may experience masculinizing effects, and psychological impacts such as anxiety and depression are common. Despite short-term physical benefits, the long-term health risks are significant. The normalization of AAS use in social media and bodybuilding culture exacerbates the issue, highlighting the need for increased awareness and regulation to address these public health concerns.