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A Semi-Automated and Reproducible Biological-Based Method to Quantify Calcium Deposition In Vitro
Published on: June 2, 2022
Coronary calcification in body builders using anabolic steroids
Lawrence J Santora1, Jairo Marin, Jack Vangrow
1Orange County Heart Institute and Research Center, Orange, CA 92668, USA. lsantora@cox.net
Preventive Cardiology
|November 7, 2006
Summary
Long-term anabolic steroid abuse in bodybuilders is linked to early coronary artery calcification. This pilot study found higher-than-expected calcium scores in steroid users, suggesting a potential cardiovascular risk.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Sports Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are performance-enhancing drugs with known cardiovascular risks.
- Atherosclerotic disease, characterized by plaque buildup in arteries, is a major cause of heart disease.
- The long-term impact of AAS on atherosclerosis development, particularly coronary artery calcification (CAC), requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between long-term anabolic steroid use and the presence of coronary artery calcification (CAC) in professional bodybuilders.
- To evaluate cardiovascular risk factors, including serum lipids and left ventricular function, in this cohort.
Main Methods:
- Coronary artery calcification (CAC) was measured in 14 male professional bodybuilders with a history of AAS abuse.
- Evaluated serum lipids, left ventricular ejection fraction, and exercise-induced myocardial ischemia.
- Compared findings to age-expected norms.
Main Results:
- Seven of the 14 bodybuilders (50%) exhibited coronary artery calcification (CAC).
- The mean CAC score was 98, with 6 out of 7 scores above the 90th percentile for age.
- Abnormal lipid profiles were observed, with a high total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein ratio (8.3).
Conclusions:
- This pilot study suggests a significant association between long-term anabolic steroid abuse and early coronary artery calcification (CAC).
- Professional bodybuilders with a history of steroid use demonstrated elevated CAC levels.
- Larger-scale studies are recommended to confirm these findings and elucidate the long-term cardiovascular implications of AAS use.
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