Doping in sport : the Maltese scenario

Abstract

The use of substances to enhance performance is common amongst sportspersons of all categories and ages. While some of these substances are legal, others are illicit and some sportspersons still use them, despite the possible risks. World-wide the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is responsible for the research, education and development of anti-doping policies, rules and regulations. The World Anti-Doping Code (W ADC) is a document which harmonises anti-doping policies internationally. Malta was declared fully compliant by WADA only early in 2012, although doping tests had been carried out on a federation basis by some sports associations previously. Thus, while the extent of doping in sport in Malta is not known, positive results obtained from these tests indicate that this may be a reality.