Question

Which of the following is the BEST reason for aerobic endurance athletes to avoid erythropoietin use?

A) hematocrit and hemoglobin levels may decrease
B) it may cause an unregulated increase in red blood cell production
C) resistance to infectious disease may be impaired
D) it may reduce the ability of the blood to carry oxygen

Answer 1

Aerobic endurance athletes should avoid EPO use because it can lead to an unregulated increase in red blood cell production, causing increased blood viscosity and related health risks.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best reason for aerobic endurance athletes to avoid erythropoietin (EPO) use is that it may cause an unregulated increase in red blood cell production, leading to a condition known as polycythemia. This increase in blood viscosity makes it more difficult for the blood to circulate within the body which can strain the heart and increase the risk of thrombotic events, like stroke or heart attack. Natural EPO production in the body maintains homeostasis and is regulated by oxygen levels, but when synthetic EPO is introduced, this delicate balance is disrupted, potentially leading to hazardous health consequences.