Jannik Sinner Drug Suspension: Why Wimbledon Winner Was Banned – The Clostebol Drug Test Controversy Explained

Updated Jul 14, 2025 | 02:05 PM IST

SummaryJannik Sinner, world No. 1 and recent Wimbledon champion, served a doping ban earlier this year after testing positive twice for clostebol, an anabolic steroid. He claimed the banned substance entered his system through a healing spray used by his physiotherapist. Though cleared of fault, the controversy continues to raise questions.
Why Wimbledon Winner Jannik Sinner Was Banned: The Clostebol Drug Test Controversy Explained

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Jannik Sinner Drug Case: Jannik Sinner, who is currently the number one-ranked player in the world, faced Carlos Alcaraz, currently number two, in the Wimbledon men's singles final on July 13.

Sinner is a three-time Grand Slam winner and has recently won his first major tournament after returning from a 3-month doping ban earlier this year.

What Happened At The Dope Test?

Sinner, Italian world No.1, failed two drug tests in 2024, which then came with a suspension from all tennis competitions from February 9 2025, to May 4, 2025, following an agreement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

He twice tested positive for clostebol, a steroid that is used to build muscles. As per the National Library of Medicine, clostebol is a drug that is a steroid that can be used to build muscles. A positive test can be because the drug was “voluntarily used to enhance performance or a direct consequence of a contamination,” it states.

However, Sinner claimed that he had been "contaminated by a healing spray purchased by his physio, Umberto Ferrara". The Times reported that his physiotherapist "used the spray on a cut on his hand and then subsequently gave Sinner a massage on his back and applied treatments to his feet."

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While he has secured his first Wimbledon title on Sunday, the doping controversy may put him in a pickle. WADA had earlier announced that it would appeal to the "no fault or negligence" decision; however, the appeal was never heard.

Detection of Clostebol In Sports

WADA notes that clostebol is an anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS), which is a derivative form testosterone and is approved for topical use in dermatological and ophthalmological preparations. In cases, it has also been permitted for its oral use.

Due to its anabolic properties, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in the past and WADA have included clostebol and the other AAS in the yearly renewed list of prohibited substances in sports.

The detection of this drug, notes WADA, is mainly based on the detection of its main metabolite, that is 4-chloro-4-androsten-3a-ol-17-one, which could be excreted into urine. Antidoping laboratories have also developed methods based on gas chromatography to improve detection capabilities, which can detect drugs even at lower limits.

While metabolite levels like M1, M2, M3, M4 show the amount of drug found in an individual's report, WADA also mentions that accidental contamination is also possible for an individual after getting into close contact with another individual using transdermal clostebol acetate. For WADA, it notes, "we propose M2, M3 and M4 as the best targets worth being synthetized and characterized for this purpose."

Clostebol: Availability, Health Risks, and Contamination Cases

A 2024 study titled Clostebol and sport: about controversies involving contamination vs. doping offence, notes that clostebol is easily available a an OTC or over-the-counter product in pharmacies or drugstores in several countries. It is commercialized as a cream or spray in the form of acetate ester. This is also the explanation Sinner had used when his reports were found positive.

The study notes that even controlled transdermal application of clostebol acetate has been reported to produce detectable amounts of its metabolites in urine, even after a single exposure.

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A 2004 study published in Oxford Academic, titled Incidental Closetbol Contamination in Athletes after Sexual Intercourse also proves that intimate contact can lead to detectable levels of closetbol in the urine. The study notes, "One male athlete whose urine tested positive for traces of clostebol metabolites claimed that he was contaminated as a result of sexual intercourse with a woman taking a medication containing clostebol. The IOC did not exonerate him from the results reported by LABDOP. The remaining athletes maintained that the presence of clostebol metabolites in their urine was the result of using clostebol-containing medications."

The study notes that closetbol acetate is also present in medicines for gynecologic treatments. However, the study notes a case in Brazil, whereas in the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve of the use of medicines that contain anabolic agents.

The main risks are those of excessive androgens: menstrual irregularities and virilization in women and impotence, premature cardiovascular disease and prostatic hypertrophy in men. Both men and women can suffer liver damage with oral anabolic steroids, notes World Health Organization's Internationally Peer Reviewed Chemical Safety Information (INCHEM).

Acute overdosage can produce nausea and gastrointestinal upset. INCHEM further notes that chronic usage is thought to cause an increase in muscle bulk, and can cause an exaggeration of male characteristics and effects related to male hormones.

Anabolic steroids can influence sexual function. They can also cause cardiovascular and hepatic damage. Acne and male-pattern baldness occur in both sexes; irregular menses, atrophy of the breasts, and clitoromegaly in women; and testicular atrophy and prostatic hypertrophy in men.

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3 Fertility Truths Every Woman Should Know, According To A Gynecologists

Updated Nov 1, 2025 | 04:00 AM IST

SummaryFor years, women have unfairly carried the blame for fertility issues. But fertility is a shared concern, influenced by both partners and various biological and environmental factors. To clear up common myths, Dr Holly Miller, an American Board–certified obstetrician and gynecologists, shared these three key truths every woman should know.
3 Fertility Truths Every Woman Should Know, According To A Gynecologists

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Infertility impacts millions across the globe, touching both men and women alike. According to the World Health Organization, around 17.5% of the global population, roughly one in six people, experience fertility challenges. This condition can significantly reduce or even prevent natural conception.

Yet, despite its prevalence, infertility remains clouded by myths and misconceptions, many of which unfairly place the blame solely on women. Seeking to debunk these long-held beliefs, Dr. Holly Miller, an American Board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, took to Instagram to share three important truths every woman should know about fertility.

3 Truths About Fertility Women Should Know

With the help of modern medicine and medical interventions like IVF, fertility treatment can help people boost their chances of reproducing.

Infertility Isn't Just a Woman's Issue

It’s important to understand that infertility affects both partners — it’s not solely a woman’s issue. Blaming only the woman is both unfair and inaccurate. In fact, experts find that the causes of infertility are almost evenly split between men and women.

Roughly one-third of infertility cases are linked to the woman, another third to the man, and the remaining third result from issues affecting both partners — or from causes that doctors are unable to clearly identify.

To identify the cause of infertility, both partners should undergo testing simultaneously. For men, a semen analysis — a quick and straightforward test — is often the easiest and most informative first step.

The "Wait One Year" Rule Changes with Age

Most couples automatically try to conceive for a full 12 months before they think about seeing a fertility doctor. However, the doctor emphasizes that the woman's age is the single most important factor that affects the chances of successful treatment.

If you are under 35 years old: You can safely try for a full 12 months of regular, unprotected sex before seeking a specialist.

If you are 35 or older: You should contact a specialist after only 6 months of trying without success.

If you are 40 or older: You need to see a specialist right away—as quickly as you possibly can.

The doctor explains that after age 35, the woman's egg supply starts to decline more quickly. Time is essential, so couples should strongly ask their doctors for an early referral.

"Unexplained Infertility" Often Means "Undiagnosed Problem"

When a couple is diagnosed with "unexplained infertility," which happens in about 10% to 20% of cases, it means the basic first tests did not find a clear reason. This can be upsetting, but it does not mean you can never have children. In the doctor's experience, the term "unexplained" often means there are hidden problems, such as:

  • Small issues with the male partner's sperm that were missed by the basic tests.
  • A hidden condition called Endometriosis, which can only be confirmed by a surgical procedure.
  • Not having sexual intercourse at the best time or not often enough.

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Hyderabad Neurologist Shares Case Of 25-Year-Old Software Engineer Diagnosed With ‘Tennis Elbow’ Caused by Computer Overuse

Updated Nov 1, 2025 | 12:00 AM IST

SummaryA 25-year-old software engineer from Hyderabad developed tennis elbow — not from sports, but from long hours at her desk. Neurologist Dr. Sudhir Kumar shared her case to highlight how poor posture and repetitive computer use can trigger serious strain injuries. Here is what you need to know about this.
Hyderabad Neurologist Shares Case Of 25-Year-Old Software Engineer Diagnosed With ‘Tennis Elbow’ Caused by Computer Overuse

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In today's corporate world, desk jobs have become the order of the day and so are the health problems associated with them. Endless typing, long hours of sitting, and poor posture are silently taking their toll on young professionals who spend most of their day glued to screens. Many don't realize that their daily work habits could trigger unexpected medical conditions.

Such a growing concern was once highlighted by Hyderabad-based neurologist Dr Sudhir Kumar, who recently shared a case on X. He wrote about one such case of Riya (name changed), a 25-year-old software engineer who developed a sharp, burning pain in her elbow-a pain which began as a minor ache while typing and gradually became so severe that even lifting a teacup felt unbearable.

What was the cause of the sharp elbow pain that Riya experienced?

Riya tried everything she could think of: Rest, pain relief balms, painkillers, even switching hands while using her computer, but the pain refused to fade. When she finally decided to visit the doctor, her symptoms immediately pointed to something unexpected: Tennis elbow. The diagnosis came as a surprise, considering she had never even held a tennis racket. On examination, Dr Sudhir Kumar found the tell-tale signs of the condition, medically known as lateral epicondylitis — tenderness along the outer elbow and pain when she tried to extend her wrist. He explained that the culprit wasn’t a sport, but repetitive strain from long hours at the computer — a problem increasingly common among desk workers.

What is Tennis Elbow?

The Mayo Clinic describes tennis elbow, medically termed lateral epicondylitis, as a painful condition resulting from the overuse of muscles and tendons in the forearm. It develops where these tissues are repeatedly strained by similar wrist and arm movements, leading to tiny tears and inflammation near the elbow.

The name is misleading, and you don't have to be an athlete to get tennis elbow. As a matter of fact, most people who develop it never have used a racket. It's common for the condition to strike people in jobs that require repetitive motions: plumbers, carpenters, painters, butchers, and yes, office workers who spend hours typing or using a mouse.

The pain generally arises on the outside of the elbow, precisely at that bony prominence to which the muscles of the forearm attach. For some, the discomfort may extend into the forearm or even the wrist, making most activities quite arduous.

How Can Tennis Elbow Be Treated?

Once the diagnosis was confirmed, Dr Sudhir Kumar focused on addressing the underlying cause — repetitive stress and poor workstation ergonomics. The holistic treatment for Riya included the following:

  • Avoided repetitive activities that triggered her pain.
  • Adjusting the computer setup and improving posture.
  • Establish a physiotherapy regimen to stretch, strengthen, and gradually build muscle endurance.
  • A short course of anti-inflammatory medication

Employing a counterforce brace-a tennis elbow strap-to reduce strain in daily activities. By her six-week follow-up, Riya’s pain had completely resolved. Her grip strength was back, and she could type, lift, and exercise without discomfort. Three months later, she was symptom-free — and far more aware of how small ergonomic changes can make a big difference.

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80% Americans Do Not Know THIS Key Fact About Early Prostate Cancer Symptoms

Updated Oct 31, 2025 | 09:00 PM IST

SummaryProstate cancer symptoms can be quite hard to catch, but do most people know how to spot them? Many people simply rely on symptoms to identify the problem. However, that may not be enough. A new survey revealed that most Americans do not know this vital information about prostate cancer symptoms.
80% Americans Do Not Know THIS Key Fact About Early Prostate Cancer Symptoms

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Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths, however, a recent survey showed that most people don’t know this vital fact about prostate cancer symptoms.

Prostate cancer is a serious illness in the US, affecting over 300,000 men each year and causing more than 35,000 deaths, according American Cancer Society. This makes it the second-most deadly cancer for men. If doctors detect the disease early, it is treatable. However, patients usually don't notice any signs of the disease in its beginning stages. Due to this lack of symptoms, checking for the disease is extremely important.

A recent survey of 1,004 U.S. adults, commissioned by the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, aimed to gauge public knowledge of the disease. The findings highlight a critical need for better education.

What Do Americans Know About Early-Stage Prostate Cancer?

The results showed that most people, 80% of those surveyed, are unaware that early prostate cancer usually has no physical symptoms. One health specialist noted that it's crucial for everyone to understand that this cancer causes no symptoms until it has become advanced. The survey also revealed other gaps in knowledge:

  • More than half of the people surveyed (59%) did not know that changes in sexual function could be a sign of prostate cancer.
  • The survey noticed some differences across groups. For example, one minority group was better at identifying less common signs like tiredness and weight loss.
  • However, that same minority group was less likely than others to correctly identify that the cancer usually has no symptoms in its early stage.

What Is The Best Way To Diagnose Prostate Cancer?

The fact that prostate cancer often begins without symptoms is the main reason doctors worry.

Lack of Symptoms

In its early phase, the cancer is small and contained within the prostate gland. It doesn't push on or block any other body parts, so it doesn't cause pain or discomfort. Because the cancer is deep inside the body, it's hard to tell if someone has it without special tests.

Provider Worry

Because men feel fine, they may wrongly believe they aren't at risk. This feeling of being safe often makes men hesitant to get screened. Since there are no symptoms to look for, screening tests, usually a simple blood test or a physical exam, are the best way to find the cancer early.

What Are Some Signs of Prostate Cancer?

Even though most men with early prostate cancer feel completely normal, there are certain signs that might appear if the disease is more advanced. These symptoms include:

  • Having trouble starting to urinate.
  • Having a urine flow that is weak or stops and starts.
  • Needing to urinate often, especially during the night.
  • Difficulty completely emptying the bladder.
  • Feeling pain or a burning sensation while urinating.
  • Noticing blood in the urine or semen.
  • Feeling pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that doesn't go away.
  • Experiencing pain during ejaculation.

When Should You Get Screened For Prostate Cancer?

According to American Cancer Society, health organizations advise men to talk with their doctors about getting checked for prostate cancer starting at certain ages, depending on their personal risk.

Average Risk: Age 50

Men who have no special risk factors.

High Risk: Age 45

Men who are African American or who have a father or brother who was diagnosed before age 65.

Highest Risk: Age 40

Men who have more than one close relative (father or brother) diagnosed at an early age. There is no one-size-fits-all advice for screening. Men should always speak to their doctor about their own risk and discuss the pros and cons of testing. Since there are no early warning signs, talking to a doctor about screening is described as "critical" and a simple process that could potentially save a man's life.

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