Changes in hemoglobin values in elite cross-country skiers from 1987 to 1999

Hemoglobin data have been available from ski teams beginning from 1987, and from 1989 to 1999 we have followed hemoglobin values in elite cross-countr y skiers in international competitions. The mean values at the 1989 World N ordic Ski Championships were lon er than population reference values, as wo uld be expected from plasma volume expansion associated with endurance trai ning. However, an increase, particularly in the maximal values, became obvi ous in 1994 and rose further in 1996. These extreme values provide both a h ealth risk to the individual athlete and unfair competition. After a rule l imiting hemoglobin values was introduced, the drop of the highest values wa s remarkable: among men 15 g/l (0.23 mmol/l) and among women 42 g/l (0.65 m mol/l). It would appear that the rule had achieved its goal of limiting ext reme hemoglobin values. Yet the mean hemoglobin concentrations in men and w omen have continued to rise, suggesting the continued use of artificial met hods to increase total hemoglobin mass.