Consequences of Doping

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Consequences of Doping
In recent times doping has become increasingly pervasive and insidious. Athletes and athlete support personnel (including, coaches, managers and medical personnel) have become more sophisticated in their attempts to gain even the slightest of margins, often with severe health consequences.

Misuse of substances or methods has led to cardiovascular disorders, liver and kidney disease, psychological or physical dependence, even death. The specter of harm has been further raised by blood doping and gene manipulation to enhance sporting performance.

The impact of doping also extends beyond the athletes concerned or sports itself. It is a problem that affects society as a whole. This is because the benefits and lessons of sport carry well beyond the playing fields. Sport is a powerful vehicle for peace by forging closer relations, mutual respect and understanding between peoples. Sport also contributes to development, drawing individuals together, providing facilities and access to community services. It fosters cooperation and helps to strengthen social ties and networks. Sport is also an important learning tool for young people as it is often during the playing of sport that children learn important values and models of good conduct that last a lifetime.

Doping has the potential to cut across and undermine these many benefits, making it essential that governments, communities, sports organizations and individuals all take action to ensure its elimination.

See also:
International Charter of Physical Education and Sport, 1978 (Full text)



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