Assessment of prevalence and predisposing factor of doping among athletes in dominant Olympic sport in Kenya

Summary

This study examines the extent of use of PEDs among Athletes in dominant Olympic sports in Kenya. In addition, it investigates precipitating factors and instances of vulnerability to doping and explores sociodemographic factors associated with the use of PEDs.

Methodology

• Research conducted in 9 counties in Kenya and 4 sports (rugby, athletics, boxing, and weightlifting)
• Questionnaires were administered to 338 athletes.

Results

• The current prevalence of intentional doping in elite athletes could be between 21.9% and 36.1% in the dominant Olympic sports in Kenya.
• Doping in Olympic sports in Kenya is largely explained by cultural and financial factors.
• Demographic factors such as gender, sport category, educational level, age, title, annual income can be considered vulnerability factors for doping in Kenya.

Significance for Clean Sport

Recommendations for policy and practice

• Kenya NADO and stakeholders must develop a national policy on sporting values and should prioritize its resources on supporting programs that address specific socio-economic variables.
• Sports organizations in Kenya must promote greater awareness of the integrity of sport, as opposed to "win-at-all-costs" approaches.
• Education programs on doping should focus more on strengthening opportunities for athletes to consider personal values and sporting priorities.