Were over 10,000 Chinese athletes part of a state-backed doping programme?

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Over 10,000 Chinese athletes allegedly involved in state-backed doping programme

A Chinese doctor, Xue Yinxian, has claimed that over 10,000 athletes across various sports were part of a state-backed doping programme in China during the 1980s and 1990s. Dr. Xue, who is seeking political asylum in Germany, stated in an interview with German broadcaster ARD that medals won by Chinese athletes in major international competitions during the last two decades of the 20th century are tainted by doping.
Allegations of widespread doping in the 1980s and 1990s

Dr. Xue asserts that during the 1980s and 1990s, athletes on China's national teams extensively used doping substances. She further claims that any athlete who refused to dope was compelled to leave their team. The use of these substances allegedly began with youth-age group teams, with some athletes as young as 11 years old involved.
Doping viewed as patriotic, dissent suppressed

According to Dr. Xue's account, doping was perceived by some within China as a means of defending the country's honour. Conversely, she claims that opposition to doping was seen as damaging to the nation, and individuals who spoke out against it faced imprisonment. She also stated that doping tests at the time were primarily intended to ensure athletes could compete internationally without being detected.
Retaliation and intimidation against whistleblower

Dr. Xue herself was dismissed from her role with the national Chinese team for refusing to administer a banned substance to a gymnast at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. She further alleges that after speaking out against doping in 2012, she faced intimidation tactics from Chinese government officials, including frequent police presence outside her home and warnings to cease discussing the issue. Both of her sons reportedly lost their jobs as a consequence. Attempts by ARD reporters to obtain a response from the Chinese Olympic Committee and China's Ministry of Sports regarding these claims reportedly went unanswered.

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Were over 10,000 Chinese athletes part of a state-backed doping programme?

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