Cobalt chloride administration in athletes: a new perspective in blood doping?
2006
Cobalt Doping in Athletes: Risks and Implications
publication
Evidence: low
Author Information
Author(s): Lippi Giuseppe, Franchini Massimo, Guidi Gian Cesare
Primary Institution: Università degli Studi di Verona
Hypothesis
Blood doping by cobalt. Should we measure cobalt in athletes?
Conclusion
Cobalt administration may pose serious health risks and is not currently banned in sports, making it a potential new method of blood doping.
Supporting Evidence
- Cobalt is easily purchasable and inexpensive.
- Cobalt administration can lead to serious health issues, including organ damage.
- Cobalt is not currently included in the World Anti-Doping Agency prohibited list.
- Current testing methods for cobalt are not practical for antidoping laboratories.
Takeaway
Some athletes might use cobalt to boost their performance, but it can be very dangerous for their health.
Potential Biases
Potential for athletes to underestimate health risks associated with cobalt use.
Limitations
Little information is available on cobalt metabolism and its effects in athletes.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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