In a recent discussion, BJJ black belt and exercise scientist Dr. Mike Israetel shed light on how PEDs can impact life expectancy, a topic that has gained renewed attention following ADCC silver medalist Vagner Rocha‘s recent hospitalization for heart failure.
Dr. Israetel told Chris Williamson several mechanisms through which PEDs can affect longevity. “They’re growing your heart muscle in a way that makes your heart worse at pumping blood,” he stated. “They are consistently presenting you with cholesterol levels that do nothing good for your arteries. They are elevating your blood pressure.”
The timing of this insight coincides with Rocha’s public health scare. The 42-year-old grappler spent five days in the hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with heart failure. Earlier last year, Rocha had openly discussed his use of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), stating, “I am about to turn 41 years old and I have been competing at the top of grappling for over a decade. I have no shame to say I am on TRT replacement for my body in accordance to a doctor.”
Dr. Israetel suggests that the impact of PEDs on lifespan can vary significantly based on multiple factors.
“If you happen to have used lots of ster*ids, but you kept most of your health values in check, and you just had dog s**t genetics for being jacked, and you never got really big, you’re probably looking at less than five years off your lifespan on average,” he explained.
The scientist also highlighted how body mass, regardless of its composition, can compound these health risks. Using himself as an example, he noted, “I’m 5’6″, and I currently weigh 235 pounds… I’m one obesity category away from the highest one all the time on BMI.” He emphasized that carrying extra mass forces the heart to work harder, potentially contributing to health issues.
Rocha, who recently earned silver at ADCC facing Mica Galvao in the finals, remains optimistic about his recovery. “Now I am on the road of recovery, taking one day at a time and keep monitoring my heart,” he shared, maintaining a positive outlook despite his diagnosis.
