The Dangers of Relying on Performance-Enhancing Drugs

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Fortunately for this edition, there was a debate at my CDS group last week concerning this particular topic. Some corpers were picked to talk on different topics which I was among. The first corper talked about 'Drug Dependence' and ways to overcome it. He defined drug dependence as an act whereby an individual depends on drugs for several activities. Such an individual would want to take drugs for anything they want to do because they assume those drugs can boost their energy and give them the strength to perform better.

A question popped up from another corper: "what can you say about footballers who depend on drugs before playing?"

This question was answered by our coordinator because she has more knowledge of drugs as she is a member of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). According to her, she explained how drugs can harm an individual especially when used in the wrong way and for the wrong purpose. After all has been said, she concluded that taking performance-enhancing drugs by footballers or athletes before playing on the field is not proper because at the end of the day, such drugs, when taken continuously can affect their overall health.

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There are various types of drugs; some are used for the right purpose and appropriate quantity while others are used wrongly and in overdose, there are people who abuse drugs illegally and their reason is to become high and perform better. My question is, does it mean one cannot perform better without drugs?

What a lot of people do not understand is how these drugs kill the body system gradually, eating up their intestines until the issue deteriorates and nothing can be done except on some lucky chances where some victims survive death. I strongly agree that these kinds of drugs should be restricted. Why do I say so?

The use of performance-enhancing drugs in any sector especially sports is a complex issue and one that is being debated on. While I understand that the desire of these drugs is to improve performance, I believe using them to gain an advantage is unfair because it undermines the integrity of sports.

Even if the side effects are reduced to the minimum level, it doesn't guarantee that its restrictions should be lifted. Everyone is aware of the health risks posed by drug intake, and in a situation for athletes, it could cause an uneven playing field. One thing I strongly believe is that one's hard work, dedication and natural talent could lead one to achieving success in sports. So why does an individual, being under the influence of drug succeed, thereby undermining the effort of the one who didn't take any drug but with constant effort and dedication did his best?

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It is important to appreciate the authentic accomplishments of athletes who earn their achievements through dedication and natural abilities instead of praising the ones who were under the influence of performance-enhancing drugs because, in the end, it diminishes the value of their hard work and achievements.

While reading a post earlier today, I went through the comment section and someone asked what happens to supplements if drugs are restricted. In my opinion, I would say using supplements is okay, but it depends on the context and type of supplements one is taking. The purpose of supplements isn't to be replaced permanently which becomes an addiction, but to enhance a healthy diet or training regimen.

Taking these drugs every time to make you perform better and speedy can be addictive and before you know it, such an individual is so dependent on it that without taking the drugs, he cannot perform well. Instead of relying on these drugs, sports should focus on promoting fair play and prioritising the athletes' overall health and well-being while celebrating their genuine achievements and not one done through drugs. It is important to recognise the true value of hard work, dedication and talent of individuals in sports.

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