IPED in Recreational Sports

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Public Health
• Substance Use Disorders

Background:

• Individuals using appearance and performance-enhancing drugs (APEDs) frequently seek medical advice but face barriers due to stigma.
• Shame and fear of prejudice lead to reluctance in discussing APED use with healthcare providers.
• Providers may lack experience and exhibit prejudice when managing this patient group.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore strategies for building trust with APED consumers seeking medical advice.
• To outline a patient-centered approach for consultations regarding APED use.
• To emphasize the role of harm reduction when abstinence is not immediately achievable.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of patient-provider interactions concerning APED use.
• Development of communication guidelines for healthcare professionals.
• Focus on motivational interviewing and harm reduction principles.

Main Results:

• A non-judgmental, non-stigmatizing, and supportive attitude is crucial for establishing trust.
• Understanding the reasons for APED use and patient concerns is paramount.
• Harm reduction strategies are effective when immediate abstinence is not a goal.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare providers must foster trust through empathetic communication to address APED use.
• Harm reduction and consistent dialogue can motivate patients towards evidence-based treatment and eventual abstinence.
• Effective management requires acknowledging patient concerns without condemnation.