Long-term Anabolic–Androgenic Steroid Use Is Associated With Deviant Brain Aging

• DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2021.01.001
• Publication Date: 2021-01-14T22:22:18Z
• Authors: Astrid Bjørnebekk; Tobias Kaufmann; Lisa E. Hauger; Sandra Klonteig; Ingunn R. Hullstein; Lars T. Westlye
• Keywords: Steroid use

High-dose long-term use of anabolic–androgenic steroids (AASs) may cause a range adverse effects, including brain and cognitive abnormalities. We performed age prediction based on scans to test whether prolonged AAS is associated with accentuated aging. T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (3D MPRAGE [magnetization-prepared rapid acquisition gradient-echo]) were obtained from male weightlifters history (n = 130) or no 99). trained machine learning models combinations regional volumes, cortical thickness, surface area in an independent training set 1838 healthy subjects (18–92 years age) predicted for each participant our study. Including cross-sectional longitudinal (mean interval 3.5 years, n 76) data, we used linear mixed-effects compare the gap between chronological (the [BAG]) two groups tested group differences rate change BAG. associations apparent aging duration, pattern administration, dependence. users had higher BAG compared weightlifting control subjects, which was dependency longer use. Group could not be explained by other substance use, general abilities, depression. While analysis revealed evidence increased overall group, accelerated seen exposure. The findings suggest that high-dose have effects aging, potentially linked exaggerated AASs.