Imane Khelif row: What is 5-Alpha reductase deficiency found in Boxer’s leaked medical report?
November 5, 2024, 6:11 AM IST
"Algerian Boxer Imane Khelif Faces Controversy"
Imane Khelif, the Algerian boxer who recently secured a gold medal in women's boxing at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, is back in the spotlight following a controversial gender discussion she ignited a few months ago.
The dispute began after a supposed leak of a medical document indicating that Khelif possibly has a condition called 5-alpha reductase deficiency. This information has sparked public anger and increased demands for justice from individuals who believe they have been treated unfairly in the competition.
As an uncommon genetic condition that affects sexual development in biological males, this issue has reignited a heated debate about gender identity and equity in women's sports.
Understanding 5-Alpha Reductase Deficiency
A document acquired by French journalist Djaffar Ait Aoudia reveals that Khelif has internal testicles and XY chromosomes, but lacks a uterus. According to Medical News, 5-alpha reductase deficiency (5-αRD) is a genetic disorder that influences sexual development. This uncommon hereditary condition can result in various symptoms that alter the appearance of external genitalia.
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Individuals with this condition are genetically male but struggle to produce an important hormone known as dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone plays a vital role in the formation of male physical traits, particularly those that are noticeable externally. Despite being genetically male, with one X and one Y chromosome and male reproductive organs called testes, these individuals face challenges related to their hormone production.
Imane Khelif's Medical Report Leaked
A report that has surfaced, supposedly from medical professionals at Kremlin-Bicêtre Hospital in Paris and Mohamed Lamine Debaghine Hospital in Algiers, has not been confirmed by HT. Still, it has sparked significant anger among the public, especially on social media. Additionally, the report mentions that an MRI apparently detected the existence of a micropenis.
In 2023, the International Boxing Association (IBA) chose to disqualify Khelif from the Gold Medal match at the World Championship in New Delhi. However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) opposed this move, stating, "From a scientific perspective, this is not a man competing against a woman." Despite facing numerous protests from other athletes, Khelif went on to secure a gold medal at the Olympics in Paris.
In August, she filed a lawsuit for cyberbullying, claiming "severe online harassment" and including well-known personalities like J.K. Rowling and Elon Musk in her allegations.
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A social media user commented, “They should charge him with assault.” Swimmer Riley Gaines pointed out, "Think about that guy who took home an Olympic gold in women's boxing. His medical records confirm he has XY chromosomes, male testosterone levels, testicles, and a micropenis. However, those facts didn’t seem to count—they argue that identity and emotions define a woman, not biological reality.” Another commenter suggested, “Angela Carini from Italy deserves the gold medal.”
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