Doping esportivo e condições ambientais extremas

Abstract

The article discusses the issue of doping in sports, addressing its historical evolution and the complexities involved in defining prohibited substances and methods. The phenomenon of doping is much older than the WADA code, with historical records dating back to prehistory and reaching its peak during the Cold War. Thus, the current definition in the CMA, while operational, may be limited when compared to the broader history and scope of the topic. Doping is traditionally associated with the use of exogenous substances that enhance athletic performance, such as anabolic steroids and, more recently, gene therapies. However, new forms of doping have recently emerged, such as mechanical doping, primarily observed in cycling, where hidden motors in bicycles provide an unfair advantage. Another example is digital doping in esports, with manipulations in hardware and software to optimize players' performance. A key aspect highlighted in the article is the impact of the environment on sports performance, with a focus on competitions held in extreme environmental conditions. High-altitude sports, for example, directly affect athletes' health and performance, especially for those not acclimatized to such conditions. Acute mountain sickness is an example of a condition that can affect athletes at altitudes above 2,500 meters, potentially causing cerebral edema and, in severe cases, death. These environments not only pose risks to athletes' health and physical integrity but also provide an unfair advantage to athletes accustomed to extreme conditions, creating a form of environmental doping that favors those used to such environments. The article argues that high-altitude sports, as well as other extreme environments, can constitute a form of environmental doping, given that athletes familiar with such conditions have a competitive edge over those who are not. Additionally, the health risks posed by these practices in extreme environments and the ways to mitigate them are discussed. The use of controlled substances, such as dexamethasone and acetazolamide, can help protect athletes' health in high-altitude competitions, but their use is restricted by the CMA. The article reflects on the need to revise antidoping policies to take environmental variables into account and propose control methods that balance sports competition while safeguarding athletes' health. Creating specific guidelines for the use of substances in environmentally risky situations could help ensure equal conditions and protect athletes' well-being.