author(s)
Anbuselvi K, Mohana Surya, Muhammad Khaleefa, Mounika, Muthulakshmi, Muthumari, Neethu, Niranjan, Nithiya Sri

abstract
In recent years, the growing emphasis on fitness and bodybuilding has led to an increase in gym attendance across India. While regular exercise promotes overall health and well-being, there is a rising concern regarding the misuse of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) among gym users. This descriptive study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes regarding steroid usage among gym users in Coimbatore. A non-experimental descriptive research design was employed, and data were collected from 60 gym users through a structured questionnaire. Participants were selected using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. The questionnaire included demographic details, knowledge assessment, and attitudes measured using a Likert scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that the majority of participants were male (83.3%), aged between 20-30 years (63.3%), and undergraduate students (80%). More than half (55%) had an average level of knowledge about steroids, while 45% had good knowledge, and none had poor knowledge. Attitude assessment showed that 66.7% had a positive attitude towards steroid usage, while 33.3% exhibited a neutral stance. A weak positive correlation (r = 0.165) between knowledge and attitude was observed. A significant association was found between the type of exercise performed and the level of knowledge regarding steroids (Chi-square = 6.711, df =2, p<0.05). The study concluded that gym users had moderate-to-good knowledge, and most of the gym users had a positive attitude towards steroid use, indicating the need for targeted awareness programs. The study highlights the role of nurses in educating gym users about the risks of steroids, integrating substance abuse topics into nursing education, and implementing evidence-based awareness programs.