Anabolic steroids detected in athlete’s sample
Calistus Kolantsho | Saturday August 12, 2023 06:00
According to information reaching Mmegi Sport, a sample taken from a Botswana athlete yielded concerning results upon analysis at the South African Doping Control Laboratory in Bloemfontein.
The sample revealed the presence of anabolic steroids, which can affect the steroid profile and render it unsuitable for longitudinal tracking. The laboratory results stated: 'The sample may not be suitable for inclusion in the longitudinal steroid profile. The analysis of the sample identified has shown the presence of Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF).' Anabolic steroids, synthetic hormones that aid muscle tissue growth and repair, often lead to rapid muscle strength gains and enhanced recovery, as indicated by Better Health Channel.
Moreover, the analysis noted the detection of nandrolone and its metabolite, 19-noretiocholanolone, substances banned since 2007 by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The findings met WADA's criteria for an AAF.
The substances in question are proscribed by the World Anti-Doping Agency, although trace amounts of 19-noretiocholanolone can occur naturally in human urine. Wikipedia suggests that consuming boar meat, liver, kidneys, and heart can elevate urinary 19-noretiocholanolone levels.
Andrew Kamanga, the Zone VI Regional Anti-Doping Organization (RADO) regional manager, affirmed that the athlete's identity remains undisclosed due to no confirmation of receipt of notification of the athlete.
This incident follows closely after the Kenya 4x100m men's relay team withdrew from the World Athletics Championships due to the provisional suspension of one of its members Samuel Imeta for doping violations.