Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jul 23, 2024 3 months, 3 weeks, 23 hours, 3 minutes ago
Medical News: Steroids are often associated with bodybuilding and athletic performance enhancement, but their misuse can lead to serious health problems. A new study highlights the link between anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) and liver cancer. This
Medical News report will explore how steroids affect the liver, the risk of liver tumors, and what the research from various institutions reveals about this alarming issue.
Steroid abuse linked to liver cancer
Anabolic Androgenic Steroids: A Brief Overview
Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are synthetic derivatives of testosterone, used medically for conditions like male hypogonadism, some types of anemia, and in female-to-male gender transition. However, AAS are widely abused for their muscle-building properties. This misuse can lead to severe side effects, including liver damage and cancer.
How Steroids Affect the Liver
The liver is a critical organ for metabolizing substances in the body, including steroids. When steroids are abused, they can cause significant liver damage. This damage is primarily due to the liver's role in breaking down these substances, leading to hepatotoxicity. In simpler terms, steroids can poison the liver, causing cells to proliferate abnormally and potentially leading to cancer.
The Study and Its Findings
Researchers from the Ospedale Degli Infermi di Faenza in Italy and the University of Bologna conducted an in-depth review of the effects of AAS on the liver. This article highlights how AAS can lead to the development of hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), two types of liver tumors.
Key Findings of the Study
-Hepatocellular Adenoma (HCA)
HCA is a rare, benign liver tumor that is more common in women using oral contraceptives. However, in men, the risk of HCA transforming into cancer is higher.
There are six molecular subtypes of HCA, each with varying risks of turning cancerous. Steroid abuse is particularly associated with the β-catenin activated subtype, which has a higher risk of malignancy.
-Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)
HCC is the most common type of primary liver cancer and is a major health concern globally, with over 900,000 new cases annually.
The study also showed that chronic liver disease, often exacerbated by steroid abuse, is a significant risk factor for HCC. Male steroid users are particularly at risk due to higher exposure to androgens, which can stimulate liver cell proliferation and cancer development.
Mechanisms Behind Steroid-Induced Liver Cancer
The study explains several molecular mechanisms through which steroids induce liver cancer:
-Androgen Receptors and β-Catenin Pathway
Androgens bind to androgen receptors in liver cells, activating
the β-catenin pathway. This pathway is crucial for cell growth and survival but can lead to cancer if overactivated.
-Role of mTOR Signaling
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway, often hyperactivated in cancers, is influenced by androgens. This pathway's interaction with androgen receptors can prevent their degradation, promoting cancerous cell growth.
Hepatitis Virus Interaction
Steroids can exacerbate liver conditions like hepatitis B and C. These viruses, combined with steroid abuse, significantly increase the risk of liver cancer.
Clinical Implications
The study emphasizes the need for awareness among healthcare providers regarding the risks of steroid abuse. Young men, often engaging in bodybuilding and steroid use, are at high risk of developing liver tumors. Regular monitoring and early intervention can help manage these risks.
Conclusion
Steroid abuse is not just a problem for athletes and bodybuilders; it's a significant public health issue that can lead to severe liver damage and cancer.
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: Gastroenterology Insights.
https://www.mdpi.com/2036-7422/15/3/44
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Read Also:
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/male-breast-cancer-cases-rising-not-among-trans-but-rather-among-body-builders
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/warning:-gym-users-taking-anabolic-androgenic-steroids--at-risk-of-fatal-heart-issues
