What cardiovascular issues can result from the use of androgenic anabolic steroids?

The use of androgenic anabolic steroids is associated with several negative cardiovascular outcomes, most notably heart disease and stroke. These steroids can alter cholesterol levels by decreasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which is considered "good" cholesterol, and increasing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. This imbalance can lead to atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the build-up of plaques in the arteries, which significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Additionally, anabolic steroids can also affect blood pressure and increase the workload on the heart, further contributing to cardiovascular complications. Therefore, the link between steroid use and serious cardiovascular issues is well-documented in the medical literature.