ANABOLIC SUPPLEMENTS ABUSE AMONG ATHLETES IN BABYLON GOVERNORATE GYMS

Background: Over the past decade it has been obvious that the prevalence of anabolic androgenic steroid abuse is increasing rapidly amongst amateur athletes and for aesthetic purposes. As a result, the adverse events related to their use are being seen more frequently. Objectives: To uncover the extent of use of anabolic supplement among gymnasium attendants and their attitude towards it. Methods: The study was done during a period of (6 months), starting from first September 2018 till the end of February 2019. A convenient, non-randomized study sample was chosen from the athletes attending thirteen gyms in deferent regions (district) in Babylon governorate. Data were collected by a questionnaire filled by the participants. Results: The mean age of participants was (25.4 ? 6.1). The users were (73.8%) and non-users (26.2%). Out of the total study group 338(73.8%) believes that these supplements carry a risk. Among the users (49.1%) had mood changes. The study showed (53%) are not sure about the correct use, while (47%) claim that they use supplements in a correct way. Most of the anabolic users in the sample (78.7%) reported that they are able to stop using the anabolic supplements, while (21.3%) reported that they can't stop. Conclusion: In conclusion most of the gym attendees were young most of them used anabolic supplements.