Asthma, outdoor air quality and the Olympic Games

Abstract

The environment can have a significant effect on performance of Olympic athletes. The heat and humidity in the Beijing region, as in previous summer Olympic events, present a formidable challenge to athletes. Poor air quality, if present, will have a psychological and possibly physiologic effect on the performance of all athletes. Athletes who have asthma may be further compromised by poor air quality. Ozone, oxides of sulfur and nitrogen as well as particulate matter increase airway inflammation, which in turn will trigger or exacerbate symptoms and possibly decrease performance. The risk is greatest among athletes with asthma who will be competing outdoors in endurance events at Olympic venues where the air quality is poor. In addition, Paralympic athletes with spinal cord lesions are at increased risk because of their compromised ability to cough and altered breathing mechanics. © 2008 Canadian Medical Association or its licensors.