About this trial
This randomized controlled trial will evaluate the efficacy of a Transtheoretical Model (TTM)-based behavior-change intervention, delivered through stage-matched counseling sessions, on anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use among gym-goers, compared with a control group receiving standard health education. Non-medical AAS use is a growing public health concern in gym and fitness settings and is associated with serious cardiovascular, endocrine, hepatic, and psychiatric harms. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a TTM-based intervention group or a control group. The intervention will tailor counseling content to each participant's stage of change (precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, or maintenance) regarding AAS use. The findings of this study will provide evidence on the effectiveness of stage-based behavioral counseling in reducing AAS use and progressing gym-goers toward safer, drug-free training practices.
Eligibility criteria
This trial does not accept healthy volunteersQualifiers
None
Disqualifiers
None
Trial design
Parallel
Treatments tested in this trial
TTM-Based Intervention for AAS Use Reduction A structured, multi-session counseling intervention grounded in the Transtheoretical Model. Content and techniques (e.g., consciousness raising, decisional
BehavioralParticipants receive a standard pamphlet/handout describing the physical and psychological risks of AAS use, consistent with routine health promotion practice at the study site.
Treatment groups
Trial outcomes
Primary outcomes
primary outcome meaure
Stage of change for anabolic-androgenic steroid use Stage of change will be assessed using a validated, AAS-adapted staging algorithm based on the Transtheoretical Model (precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance). This outcome will evaluate participants' readiness to reduce or discontinue AAS use. Forward stage progression indicates a positive treatment effect.
Change in Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Use Behavior
The primary outcome is the change in anabolic-androgenic steroid use behavior from baseline to the end of the intervention, assessed using a validated questionnaire.
Secondary outcomes
Change Behavior
2\. Self-reported anabolic-androgenic steroid use behavior AAS use will be assessed using a self-report questionnaire capturing frequency, dose, and duration of use over the preceding period. This outcome will measure change in actual use behavior. Lower frequency/dose indicates reduced use. \[Time Frame: Immediately after completion of the assigned intervention (post-test 1) and 8 weeks after completion of the intervention (post-test 2).\] 3. Decisional balance regarding anabolic-androgenic steroid use Decisional balance (perceived pros and cons of AAS use) will be assessed using the study questionnaire. This outcome will measure the shift in the balance of perceived benefits versus risks of AAS use. A decrease in perceived pros relative to cons indicates a positive treatment effect. \[Time Frame: Immediately after completion of the assigned intervention (post-test 1) and 8 weeks after completion of the intervention (post-test 2).\] 4. Self-efficacy to resist anabolic-androgenic steroid u
Sponsors and contacts
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Alaa Yousif Ayed Ahmed
Lead sponsor
University of Baghdad
Sponsor institution
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