Banned drugs in sport - Does the International Olympic Committee (IOC) list need updating?

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) published the first list of dopin g classes in 1967. Since that time, there have been significant problems as sociated with doping control in sport. Sport is a high profile, internation ally recognised activity. However, operational inconsistencies exist betwee n countries and between sports federations. Endogenous substances, such as testosterone, human growth hormone (hGH) and erythropoietin (Epo) present p articular problems in determining what constitutes 'normal' levels in athle tes. In addition, there is no reliable method available for the detection o f hGH and Epo through urine testing. Athletes continue to test positive for banned drugs that are available over-the-counter despite their having been taken inadvertently, without intent to enhance performance. Marijuana use is becoming widespread in society and the impact of this in sport is becomi ng evident. Doping control, through the IOC list, must continue as a primary objective for the IOC and the sports federations. Constant vigilance and a continued willingness to respond rapidly to change is a prerequisite for such a list. The IOC appears to recognise this need. There are, however, more fundament al issues to be considered. The concept of doping control must be supported by high quality research, effective education and international collaborat ion. More research is needed into the factors which induce an athlete to ta ke drugs and into the effect, if any, that education on drugs is having on competitors. The most important area for change is the overriding need for international collaboration between the IOC, governments and sports federat ions. This applies to uniformity in the rules and regulations, consistency in the application and level of sanctions and cooperation on the disseminat ion of information and development of education policies.