Doping in combat sports: a systematic review

Abstract

Purpose: This systematic review aims to synthesize the current research on doping in combat sports, examining the prevalence, detection methods, prevention strategies, and overall impact on combat sports. Design/methodology/approach: Of the 21 identified articles, six met the inclusion criteria. A systematic approach was used, including content analysis based on specific criteria: articles in English, original research, and relevance to sport and doping. Findings: The review reveals an unsettling prevalence of doping across combat sports, suggesting that current detection and prevention efforts may be insufficient to address the unique pressures and risks within these disciplines. In particular, substances like anabolic agents, diuretics, hormone modulators, and NSAIDs are commonly detected, especially among athletes in heavier weight categories and those engaging in rapid weight loss. Psychological and social factors, including social norms and perceived acceptance within athletic environments, appear to play a significant role in shaping doping behaviors, complicating prevention efforts. Beta-agonists emerged as the sixth most frequent cause of adverse analytical findings (AAF) in 2020, according to WADA data, while kickboxing had the highest AAF rate among combat sports in a 2015 report. These trends suggest a pressing need for more comprehensive, nuanced approaches to regulation. Research limitations/implications: Limited to English-language articles The honesty of athletes about their experience in doping could have influenced the results. Originality/value: As the first systematic review on doping in combat sports, this study offers valuable insights and underscores the urgency of developing anti-doping policies and it provides insightful data for future research directions for addressing doping in these disciplines.