Final answer:
The most common doping substances include anabolic steroids, erythropoietin, and human growth hormone. These substances pose significant health risks and are banned by sports authorities. Despite regulations and testing, their use for performance enhancement is an ongoing issue in competitive sports.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common doping substances in sports include anabolic steroids, erythropoietin, and human growth hormone. Anabolic steroids, synthetic derivatives of testosterone, are frequently abused to enhance muscle mass and performance. Erythropoietin, often used in endurance sports, increases red blood cell production to improve oxygen transport in the body. Human growth hormone promotes muscle growth and is also abused for its performance-enhancing effects. All these substances pose significant health risks and are banned by sports governing bodies.
The ethical issues of doping extend beyond the health risks. The use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) is considered to be against the "spirit of sport," leading to unfair competition and cheating. Despite strict regulations by organizations such as the International Olympic Committee and the creation of the World Anti-Doping Agency, PED usage persists. Enforcement agencies actively test for these substances to uphold sports integrity, with penalties imposed on athletes who are caught doping.
Health concerns surrounding PEDs are not trivial; side effects can include cardiovascular disease, aggressive behavior, infertility, and even mortality risks. The psychological and physiological dangers make the use of PEDs a substantial concern for athletes' well-being.