A national survey of drug testing policies for college athletes

This study examined current and proposed drug testing policies from a stratified random sample of colleges and universities in the United States. Two-hundred forty-five of the 288 athletic directors surveyed responded, and 29% reported drug testing of their student athletes. Testing was most commonly conducted on a random basis, with cocaine and amphetamines the most frequently screened drugs, 85% and 83%, respectively. Only 56% tested for other specific performance-enhancing drugs such as steroids. Referral for treatment was the most common consequence of testing positive. Among schools conducting testing, the majority of students supported the program, whereas in schools without a testing program, it was anticipated that the majority of students would be opposed. It is suspected that more schools will initiate testing over the short term.