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One- and two-dimensional echocardiography in bodybuilders using anabolic steroids
A Urhausen1, R Hölpes, W Kindermann
1Department of Sports and Performance Medicine, University of the Saarland, Saarbrücken, Federal Republic of Germany.
Summary
Intensive strength training can increase left ventricular (LV) wall thickness. Anabolic steroid users showed greater LV wall thickness and improved power compared to non-users, suggesting drug influence.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Sports Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Intensive strength training is known to induce cardiac adaptations.
- The specific role of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) in cardiac remodeling alongside training is not fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate concentric left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy due to intensive strength training.
- To differentiate the effects of strength training from anabolic drug use on cardiac structure.
Main Methods:
- One-dimensional and two-dimensional echocardiography were performed on 21 bodybuilders.
- Cycle ergometer tests were used to assess performance.
- Participants were categorized into anabolic steroid users (A) and non-users (N).
Main Results:
- Anabolic steroid users (A) demonstrated superior power output compared to non-users (N).
- LV muscle mass and heart volume were similar between groups.
- Users (A) exhibited a significantly lower body dimension-related diastolic LV diameter and increased LV wall thickness:diameter and LV muscle mass:volume ratios compared to non-users (N).
Conclusions:
- Intensive strength training, particularly with anabolic steroid use, is associated with increased left ventricular wall thickness.
- Anabolic steroids appear to augment cardiac adaptations beyond those induced by training alone.
- Further research is needed to understand the long-term cardiovascular implications.