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Topic Overview
MAIN IDEAS
- There are two main categories of drug use among athletes that generate controversy: the recreational use of illegal substances, and the use of illegal or prohibited performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).
- The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) enforces anti-drug regulations for the Olympics and other international sporting events, and the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) enforces anti-drug regulations among US Olympic athletes.
- Recreational drug use may put an athlete in violation of the law or spur the loss of high-profile sponsorships. If publicized, recreational drug use may also damage an athlete's reputation among colleagues and fans.
- Some people oppose PED use because it has damaging long-term health effects, while others consider it a form of cheating. Supporters, however, cite individual choice and contend that PED use is like using technologically advanced equipment and gear.
- The extent of PED use in sports is difficult to ascertain, in large part because athletes, coaches, trainers, and other associates take action to hide or cover up PED use.
- Emerging issues include stimulant use in esports, international regulators using testosterone levels to determine eligibility for women's competitions, and athletes as a vulnerable population in the opioid crisis.
Argument IN FAVOR of allowing Performance Enhancing Drugs (FOR)
Argument OPPOSED to Performance Enhancing Drugs (AGAINST)
