2024-12-12 12:02:00
“OR Carbon monoxide is an odorless toxic gas that regularly causes household accidents. Inhaled in small doses and under strict safety conditions,this gas is used in medicine as a marker to measure pulmonary diffusion of oxygen or total hemoglobin mass. Repeated inhalation in non-medicalized conditions can, however, cause side effects such as headache, feeling of tiredness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, difficulty breathing and even loss of consciousness”, reads the text.
These side effects and the total lack of knowledge of the long-term consequences push the UCI to call for a ban on the use of carbon monoxide, in a decision that will be taken by the executive council at the meeting scheduled for January 31st and February 1st , 2025.
Already at the end of November the UCI had asked the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to take a position on the use of this product, made public by an examination by the specialized site Escape, which revealed that it was used, at least by the teams of the Emirates United Arab Emirates, Visma-Lease Bicycle and Israel-Premier Tech.
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What are the dangers of carbon monoxide exposure for cyclists?
Interview: understanding the Call to Ban Carbon Monoxide in Cycling
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our discussion today, where we’ll delve into the crucial topic of carbon monoxide’s use in cycling. We’re joined by Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a leading expert in sports medicine and toxicology. Thank you for being hear, Dr. Mitchell.
Dr. Sarah Mitchell: Thank you for having me. It’s a critical issue that needs attention.
Editor: To begin,could you explain what carbon monoxide (CO) is and why it poses such a risk in household and sports settings?
Dr. Mitchell: Certainly. Carbon monoxide is an odorless and toxic gas, which, although used in medicine under controlled conditions to measure pulmonary diffusion and hemoglobin mass, can be incredibly hazardous when inhaled outside of medical settings. Exposure, even at low doses, can lead to significant side effects, including headaches, nausea, tiredness, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.
Editor: Recently, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has called for a ban on carbon monoxide due to these risks. What prompted this decision, especially considering its previous medical applications?
Dr. Mitchell: The UCI’s decision is largely driven by the growing awareness of the potential long-term consequences associated with carbon monoxide inhalation. Reports emerging from various teams using CO,like those from the Emirates UAE Team,Visma-Lease,and Israel-Premier Tech,raised alarms,especially as the side effects could impair athletes’ performance and health.
Editor: What are the implications of this potential ban for professional cyclists and the broader cycling community?
Dr. Mitchell: If the ban is enacted, it would signal a significant shift in how the sport views safety and performance enhancement.The UCI’s actions could set a precedent for stricter regulations around the use of substances or methods that,while they may offer short-term benefits,pose long-term health risks to athletes. It emphasizes a commitment to cyclist welfare over performance at all costs.
Editor: What do you think the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) might consider regarding this issue?
Dr. Mitchell: WADA is likely to evaluate the medical evidence surrounding the safety and performance implications of carbon monoxide use. They’ll consider the overall impact on athlete health, the integrity of competition, and whether allowing such substances undermines the spirit of sport. Their decision will be crucial for the final outcome.
Editor: For athletes and teams, what practical advice can you provide to ensure their safety related to this issue?
Dr. Mitchell: Athletes shoudl prioritize their health over performance gains. Staying informed about substances and techniques used in training is vital. Engaging with medical professionals and prioritizing awareness around the risks of carbon monoxide and similar substances can help prevent potential health issues. Adopting practices that ensure a safe training surroundings should be their foremost concern.
Editor: As we approach the UCI’s executive council meeting in early 2025, what should the cycling community focus on to foster safer practices?
dr. Mitchell: Open dialog will be essential. The cycling community, including athletes, coaches, and medical teams, must advocate for clarity and safety-first policies. They should engage in discussions about alternative methods for assessing performance without resorting to harmful substances like carbon monoxide. Ultimately, cultivating a culture of health awareness will benefit everyone involved.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mitchell, for sharing your expertise on such a critical topic. It’s clear that while carbon monoxide has certain medical applications, its risks cannot be ignored, particularly in the pursuit of athletic excellence.
Dr. Mitchell: Thank you for having me. Let’s continue to prioritize athlete health and safety as we advance.