Sample Analysis
USADA's testing program follows the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Code and International Standards for the analysis of athlete samples collected for doping control.
Laboratories
An important part of USADA's testing program as well as all WADA-Code compliant testing programs includes sending samples to WADA-accredited anti-doping laboratories. Laboratories that wish to perform the analysis of anti-doping samples for sport under the World Anti-Doping Code must achieve and maintain WADA accreditation. Currently there are 34 laboratories around the world with WADA accreditation including two in the United States. For an interactive and full list of WADA-accredited laboratories please click here.
WADA publishes an International Standard for Labratories (ISL). The purpose of the International Standard for Laboratories (ISL) is to ensure production of valid test results and evidentiary data and to achieve uniform and harmonized results and reporting from all accredited laboratories.
The ISL and its related Technical Documents specify the criteria that must be fulfilled by anti-doping laboratories to achieve and maintain WADA accreditation.
The current ISL, has been in effect since January 1, 2009.
Research on Samples
Recognizing that research is the cornerstone of an effective anti-doping program, USADA has always placed emphasis on the study of prohibited substances, the development of tests and other research impacting anti-doping science. Athletes can contribute to anti-doping research as well, by voluntarily choosing this option during the sample collection process.
As mandated in the WADA Code, USADA does not use athletes' samples for research without the athlete's consent. In instances where consent is given, samples will have any identification removed so that the sample cannot be traced to the particular athlete.
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