dopingrisk

Doping risk refers to the potential negative consequences associated with the use of prohibited performance-enhancing substances or methods in sport. It encompasses health hazards for athletes, the likelihood of testing positive and receiving sanctions, and broader impacts on teams, sponsors, and public trust. The concept also includes regulatory, ethical, and public health concerns, such as adverse effects from contaminated supplements.

Health risks are diverse and substance-specific, including cardiovascular events, liver and kidney damage, hormonal disturbances, metabolic problems, psychiatric effects, and potential dependence. Risk tends to be higher with high-dose or multi-substance use and among younger athletes.

Regulatory risk arises from anti-doping rules and testing programs. Major sports adhere to a code such as WADA's, with prohibited lists, in- and out-of-competition testing, and the Athlete Biological Passport. A positive test or related violation can lead to disqualification, suspensions, loss of medals, and reputational damage.

Risk factors include the level of competition, sport type, access to substances, and variability in testing rigor. Management focuses on education, medical oversight, and robust testing, plus guidance on supplement use to prevent inadvertent doping.

Related topics include anti-doping agencies, the World Anti-Doping Agency, the prohibited list, athlete welfare, and supplement safety standards.