A fool's game: Blood doping in sport

• We examine the argument to allow blood doping in sport.
• The argument for legalisation is based on a perceived lack of harm.
• The argument fails to recognise the risks inherent to transfusion.
• The argument fails to recognise the greater risk to poorer athletes.
• Blood doping should remain prohibited.

‘Blood doping’ involves the transfusion of blood into an athlete's circulation to boost their oxygen carrying capacity. The procedure has been used in endurance events such as cycling and skiing but is prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency. The validity of restrictions on performance enhancement including ‘blood doping’ has been challenged. However, the argument for legalisation fails to recognise the significant risks inherent to the use of blood products that include: immune reaction, bacterial contamination and the transmission of viral disease. The argument also fails to recognise the disparities in health resources that would render athletes from less wealthy nations at much greater risk. There are significant, health risks associated with blood doping; this seriously compromises claims for legalisation.