Boosting (doping)

Boosting, in the context of athletic doping, refers to the intentional inducement of autonomic dysreflexia, typically employed by athletes with spinal cord injuries. It is a dangerous and prohibited practice intended to artificially enhance performance.

Autonomic dysreflexia is a condition characterized by a sudden, uncontrolled increase in blood pressure, often triggered by stimuli below the level of spinal cord injury. These stimuli can include things like a full bladder, bowel impaction, or pressure sores. In individuals without spinal cord injury, these stimuli would result in normal physiological responses. However, in individuals with spinal cord injuries, the signals from below the injury site cannot properly reach the brain, leading to a reflexive and excessive activation of the sympathetic nervous system.

Athletes with spinal cord injuries who engage in boosting will intentionally trigger autonomic dysreflexia before or during competition. The resulting increase in blood pressure can lead to improved cardiovascular function, increased oxygen delivery to muscles, and potentially enhanced strength and endurance. This provides an unfair advantage over competitors.

Boosting is extremely dangerous. The elevated blood pressure can lead to severe health consequences, including stroke, seizure, retinal hemorrhage, and even death. Due to the significant health risks and unethical nature of gaining an unfair advantage, boosting is strictly prohibited by sporting organizations such as the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Testing for boosting typically involves monitoring blood pressure levels and looking for signs and symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia during competition. Educational programs are also employed to raise awareness among athletes, coaches, and medical personnel about the risks and ethical implications of boosting. Detection methods can be challenging, however, highlighting the need for ongoing research and refinement of testing protocols.