(a) Why is there a need to conduct such tests? - Drug testing in sports is essential to ensure fairness and integrity in competitions.
- Performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) can provide an unfair advantage, and their use is prohibited by most sports organizations.
- Conducting drug tests helps to maintain a level playing field and protect the health of athletes.
- It also helps prevent the use of banned substances that may cause long-term health issues and affect the athlete's career.
(b) Name the drugs the authorities usually look for. - Authorities typically look for the following types of drugs in sports drug tests:
1. Anabolic steroids (used to increase muscle mass and strength).
2. Stimulants (used to enhance alertness and reduce fatigue).
3. Diuretics (used for weight loss and masking other drugs).
4. Blood doping agents (such as EPO to increase red blood cell count).
5. Beta-blockers (used to reduce anxiety and steady hand movements, mainly in shooting and archery).
(c) Write the generic names of two plants from which these drugs are obtained.
- Erythropoietin (EPO): A synthetic version of a hormone that enhances red blood cell production, often derived from recombinant DNA technology but originally inspired by the hormone produced in the kidneys.
- Caffeine: A stimulant obtained from plants like Coffea arabica (coffee) and Camellia sinensis (tea). It is used to enhance alertness and reduce fatigue in athletes.