Heart Beat: Steroids and the heart
The use of anabolic steroids isn't limited to Tour de France cyclists and record-breaking home run hitters. More than one million American men and women have used these drugs to gain muscle and lose body fat. Most steroid users are vaguely aware of possible side effects like acne, but few know these drugs can harm the left ventricle, the heart's main pumping chamber.
The quick fix of steroids isn't worth the short-term and long-term health consequences. This study and previous research suggests that anyone who uses, or has used, steroids should take special care of his or her heart and arteries, and perhaps consider asking for a good cardiac workup.
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