More social media use tied to stronger anabolic steroid intentions, study suggests
Medical Xpress
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A new study of over 1,500 boys and men in Canada and the United States reveals a significant link between social media use and intentions to use anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). The research highlights that exposure to muscularity-focused content and body comparisons on social media may play a key role in shaping these intentions. While participants spent about two hours daily on social media, it was this specific form of screen time that stood out as a predictor of steroid use intentions, more so than other activities like watching videos or browsing the web.
The study, based on data from The Study of Boys and Men (N = 1,515), specifically examined how different forms of screen time influenced AAS intentions among participants who had never used steroids before. It found that social media engagement, particularly when combined with exposure to idealized body images and comparisons, created a stronger association with steroid use intentions. This suggests that the content consumed on social media, rather than just the amount of time spent online, is a critical factor in shaping attitudes toward AAS.
The findings underscore the potential risks of social media exposure for young men’s health. Anabolic steroid use is associated with serious health consequences, including cardiovascular issues, liver damage, and mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The study raises concerns about how online environments might normalize or even encourage risky behaviors, such as using performance-enhancing substances, through targeted content and comparisons.
This research matters because it highlights the need to understand how social media influences health behaviors and attitudes. For those interested in health, particularly parents, educators, and healthcare providers, this study emphasizes the importance of being aware of the potential negative impacts of social media on body image and substance use. It also calls for further research into the long-term effects of social media exposure on mental and physical health outcomes.
Ultimately, the study adds to a growing body of evidence that social media plays a significant role in shaping attitudes and behaviors related to health and wellness. For public health professionals, this suggests the need for interventions that address the harmful effects of online content while promoting positive body image and healthy lifestyle choices.
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/20/2026