What are the effects of EPO on athletic performance and what are the risks associated with its use?

EPO is a hormone produced in the kidneys that regulates hemoglobin in the body.
EPO and its related compound, darbopoetin, are available for medical treatment of anemia.
Athletes who practice endurance sports such as cycling or long-distance running began to abuse EPO to increase endurance.
The amount of red blood cells determines the amount of oxygen that can be provided to the exercising muscle.
Too many red blood cells in circulation can cause the blood to thicken, leading to heart attacks and strokes.
There is no evidence that EPO can increase muscle strength.
An effective test to detect EPO was developed in 2000 and has been used regularly since then.
The use of EPO in healthy adults can cause significant adverse effects, including heart attacks and strokes.
There is no laboratory test to detect EPO, but researchers are working on several different detection methods.