Which of the following is a recommended component of identifying and intervening in AAS abuse?

• A. Isolating athletes from care
• B. Ignoring reported concerns
• C. Active monitoring
• D. Relying only on self-report

Answer: (C)

Active, ongoing assessment is essential when addressing AAS abuse. Monitoring athletes regularly allows for early detection of changes in behavior, performance, or health that may indicate steroid use, and it supports timely, supportive intervention rather than waiting for a problem to become overt. This approach helps build trust, ensures access to education, counseling, and medical resources, and guides appropriate actions based on current risk and need.

Isolating athletes from care undermines trust and removes them from support systems. Ignoring reported concerns misses important signals that something may be wrong. Relying only on self-report is unreliable because athletes may underreport or conceal use. Active monitoring provides a balanced, proactive method that aligns with best practices for identification and intervention.