Athletes aged 12 on drugs: study

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Illustration: Ron Tandberg

Athletes as young as 12 are using performance or image enhancing drugs, according to a new study finding the practice may be going unchecked because of a lack of drug testing. 

The three-year study by the University of Canberra and Griffith University has found use of performance enhancing drugs and supplements was now relatively prevalent among young elite athletes. 

The study – which will be presented at the University of Canberra on Wednesday night – interviewed more than 900 athletes between the ages of 12 and 17 and found about 4 per cent of elite junior athletes were using performance or image enhancing drugs.

About one in three young athletes use nutritional supplements.