An improved test for growth hormone could well be close to validation by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) after being supported by leading anti-doping officials this week.
This improved test, which also uses blood samples, will enable anti-doping laboratories to detect if an athlete has used growth hormone up to 21 days prior to the test.
As a result of this breakthrough test, we could see it implemented in time for the London 2012 Olympics. It is a major development because the current test for growth hormone carries a minimal window of detection between only 12 and 72 hours after an athlete has administered it.
As reported by the ASO, Travis Tygart, head of US Anti-Doping (ASADA) said “This is an important step, we’re hopeful it’s going to be approved by WADA soon.” Furthermore, the test will now undergo a validation process by WADA before it can be fully implemented. Tygart added, “I would hope it’s (implementation) is imminent,” Tygart said. “Clean athletes, once they’re satisfied that it’s scientifically validated and should be used, they want it out their immediately.”
Growth hormone is one of many in a group of performance enhancers involved with a variety of body processes that increase strength and promote growth. With prolonged use, the banned drug carries many side effects that includes acromegaly – a disease resulting in increased growth in bone structure which enlarges the size of feet, hands and skeletal structure of the face.
We wish to congratulate all those involved in the development of the new test, a test that will hopefully become a powerful weapon in the continued fight against doping across all sports.
Comments
Write your comment