blood doping

Question 1

what is EPO

Answer 1

a hormone which is produced in the kidneys which stimulates bone marrow

Question 2

what are the two ways of blood doping

Answer 2

• by injecting EPO
• by blood transfusion

Question 3

process of blood transfusion (4)

Answer 3

• Blood is taken 3-4 weeks before competition, usually at a point when haemoglobin levels are high (train at high altitude before) -Blood is frozen to maintain the high haemoglobin levels that will produce more red blood cells

-The body naturally replaces the blood that was removed, returning red blood cell count to normal levels

-1-2 days before competition, the blood is thawed and reintroduced to the performer via a blood transfusion

-This will increase the number of red blood cells in the body and the capacity to carry more oxygen

Question 4

the process of blood transfusion is a more

Answer 4

complicated and time consuming method of increasing red blood cell concentration, that requires careful planning and the help of others

Question 5

how is EPO detected

Answer 5

by drug testing

Question 6

what is blood doping

Answer 6

the misuse of techniques and/or substances to increase a performer’s red blood cell count

Question 7

how is EPO administered (2)

Answer 7

can be artificially produced or by injecting it under your skin

Question 8

effects of blood doping on the body (4)

Answer 8

• Increases red blood cell production, as more oxygen is transferred in the blood
• Improves aerobic capacity (more oxygen to muscles, delaying fatigue).(VO2MAX)
• Enhances endurance performance (athlete can sustain effort for longer).
• Improves recovery time

Question 9

how does it improve performance (3)

Answer 9

• Increases oxygen-carrying capacity ( improves stamina and endurance).
• Delays fatigue ( allowing athletes to maintain intensity for longer).
• Speeds up recovery (muscles get more oxygen, reducing tiredness).

Question 10

how is it tested

Answer 10

Through blood tests (check that red blood cell count is normal