Which of the following is a recommended practice in AAS abuse identification and intervention?

• A. Active monitoring
• B. Open, honest, evidence-based dialogue with all stakeholders
• C. Develop relationships with other healthcare professionals
• D. Randomized controlled trials

Answer: (C)

A multidisciplinary, collaborative approach with other healthcare professionals is the most effective way to identify and intervene in AAS abuse. When clinicians build strong relationships with colleagues across primary care, endocrinology, addiction services, mental health, sports medicine, and pharmacy, they can create a coordinated plan that covers screening, risk assessment, and treatment. This teamwork makes it easier to identify AAS use and related health problems—such as hormonal imbalances, liver and cardiovascular risks, or mood and body image concerns—and to tailor interventions that address both medical and behavioral needs. It also streamlines referrals, enables consistent messaging about risks and discontinuation, and supports ongoing monitoring and safety as the patient changes their use or begins cessation.

Active monitoring, while important, does not by itself establish the broad, integrated network needed for comprehensive care. Open, honest dialogue with all stakeholders is valuable, but it works best within a collaborative framework that connects different healthcare professionals. Randomized controlled trials are essential for advancing evidence, but they are research activities, not everyday clinical practices used for identifying and intervening with individuals.