Abstract
Background
People using anabolic steroids adopt different strategies to manage risks and harms associated with the use of these substances. We investigated the process of learning and incorporating risk-management strategies (RMS), as well as the events that triggered changes in health behaviour.
Methods
Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted with anabolic steroid users living in the UK to discuss their RMS (19 males, 1 female; median time of drug use = 9 years). Online interviews were transcribed verbatim and qualitative data was analysed via iterative categorisation.
Results
The RMS were characterised as a continuous cycle of identification, prevention and control of risks and harms. Preventative RMS were more commonly adopted after many years of anabolic steroid use. Changes in life circumstances and adverse health conditions were described as triggers for changes in behaviour, including stop using anabolic steroids.
Conclusion
Our results can be used to support interventions aiming to increase awareness and improve health-related behaviours of people using anabolic steroids. Further studies are required to assess the effectiveness and safety of the RMS adopted by this population.