Washington, DC—Congresswoman Diane E. Watson (D-33) made the following statement on gene doping during a recent interview with FOX Television Network:

“The idea that athletes competing at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China could be using gene doping as an enhancement drug is disturbing to me, but not out of the realm of a possibility,” said Congresswoman Watson during an interview on Fox Television Network.

“Genes that appear to affect athletic performance were acknowledged about a decade ago.  However, according to scientific experts in the field today, gene therapy use remains experimental and is considered highly risky.”

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) describes gene doping as “the non-therapeutic use of cells, genes, genetic elements, or the modulation of gene expression, having the capacity to enhance athletic performance.”

“The signs are ominous,” stated Rep. Watson. “Chances are good, despite the unknowns and the possible dangers, that someone participating in the 2008 Olympics in Beijing may undergo gene doping in an attempt to enhance athletic performance in search of a gold medal.”