“I would never go to the doctor and speak about steroids”: Anabolic androgenic steroids, stigma and harm

Abstract

Background: This investigation explores the concept of stigma related to people who use anabolic-androgenic steroids (PWU-AAS) when accessing healthcare services. Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are used by subsections of the population and have been associated with various health harms. Responding to associated health risks, within the UK, harm reduction and healthcare service provisions have been established. Although these services provide essential support, various barriers, including stigma, exist which can limit engagement with them. Method: Ten qualitative interviews were conducted with PWU-AAS and have accessed healthcare and harm reduction services related to their use of AAS. Results: PWU-AAS anticipated stigma: (1) when accessing needle and syringe programs; (2) when seeking support from healthcare professionals; and (3) when experiencing specific adverse health implications. Stigma meant PWU-AAS were less likely to engage with healthcare professionals, attend harm reduction services, and were reluctant to disclose specific medial conditions. Conclusions: Interventions and messaging tackling AAS-related stigma ought to be considered for public-facing health and harm reduction services, to better support the needs and requirements of PWU-AAS.