There are natural fluctuations in hematocrit (red blood cells) levels in the general population. There are typically greater fluctuations in athletes depending on condition, season, health and time of tests. Therefore more advanced testing is needed to ensure reliable analysis of the HCT to hold their value against potential appeals to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Dried Blood Spot sample and testing may go a long way in ensuring that cheating athletes are suspended appropriately.