Guillermo Escalante, professor of kinesiology and associate dean in the College of Natural Sciences, was invited to participate on a panel at the Second Conference on Human Enhancement, held at Oxford University in England.  

Titled “Elite athletics and the intersection of human performance enhancement and longevity,” the panel focused on the advancements in human enhancement technologies and its impact, such as benefits, risks, disparities and challenges.

Additionally, the panel discussed “potential future uses for some performance enhancement substances beyond athletic performance but for longevity and health,” said Escalante.

Escalante was one of 50 contributing authors of the Declaration of Human Enhancement, which consisted of scientists, physicians and thought leaders who are experts in the fields of human performance enhancement and longevity.
Escalante was one of 50 contributing authors of the Declaration of Human Enhancement, which consisted of scientists, physicians and thought leaders who are experts in the fields of human performance enhancement and longevity.

At the conference, held Dec. 9-10, a consensus was formed on the rights, duties and obligations for human enhancement by ratifying the Declaration of Human Enhancement. The declaration is the first of its kind and establishes a framework for human enhancement, which is rooted in 10 key principles, including:

  • The Right to Medical Oversight: Ensuring all enhancement procedures are safe and regulated.
  • The Right to Freedom from Coercion: Protecting athletes' autonomy and choice.
  • The Right to Equality of Access: Democratizing cutting-edge science to level the playing field for all.

Escalante was one of 50 contributing authors of the declaration, consisting of scientists, physicians and thought leaders who are experts in the fields of human performance enhancement and longevity.

The declaration will serve as the foundation for the up-and-coming Enhanced Games, an international sporting event that gives athletes the opportunity to enhance their abilities under professional supervision. For Escalante, the declaration “sets the tone for what we're trying to accomplish, and it's the vision and the mission of the Enhanced Games overall.”