Question

Give one method of doping.

Answer 1

Blood doping refers to the practice of utilizing blood transfusions to supply an athlete’s body with an increase in red blood cells prior to competing.  Increased red blood cell presence allows for more oxygen to reach the lungs and other muscles, increasing aerobic capability. Homologous transfusions use compatible blood types from a donor, while autologous transfusions are done with the recipient’s own blood.  The blood is harvested some time prior to competing, frozen and stored.  This process does not effect the red blood cells.  Then, shortly before competition, the transfusion takes place, increasing the red blood cell count in the athlete.