The use of banned substances to enhance athletic performance remains a significant challenge in high-performance sports. Despite advances in monitoring and anti-doping education, many athletes are still unaware of the real risks associated with these practices.
A study published in 2024 in the Academic Journal of Sports Science & Medicine analyzed the level of knowledge about doping among 452 athletes, including professionals and amateurs. The objective was to assess how much these groups understand the consequences of using doping substances, such as anabolic steroids, growth hormones, erythropoietin (EPO), and stimulants.
The results are striking: even among professionals, the average number of correct answers to questions about the adverse effects of banned substances fell below what is considered satisfactory. Only 35% of participants had received any type of formal training on the subject, and less than half knew how to correctly identify the risks associated with the use of these substances.
The adverse effects are wide-ranging, from hormonal and cardiovascular changes to liver damage, infertility, and fatal risks. Furthermore, unsupervised use tends to occur clandestinely, which significantly increases the likelihood of serious complications.
Despite increasing access to information, the study reinforces that competitive pressures and the pursuit of quick results still drive many athletes to use illicit methods. The desire to surpass limits, coupled with the mistaken perception that "everyone does it," creates an environment vulnerable to doping. These psychological and social factors show that prevention needs to go beyond technical knowledge; it is also necessary to address beliefs and behaviors within the sport.
These findings reinforce the importance of ongoing educational and preventative programs conducted by anti-doping agencies and sports institutions. Awareness is essential not only to ensure the integrity of sport, but also to preserve the health and careers of athletes.
At Z2, we believe that performance and safety go hand in hand. Informing, preventing, and offering products that meet regulatory standards are fundamental steps towards a cleaner and more conscious sport.
Access our anti-doping guide: https://mailchi.mp/z2performance/z2-meudoc_cartilha_doping
