Rundell, K. W., Wilber, R. L., Beck, K. C., & Anderson, S. D. (2001). Exercise-induced asthma: Are we overdiagnosing the elite athlete. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 33(5), Supplement abstract 1035.

"The prevalence of exercise-induced asthma among elite athletes has been estimated by survey, pharmacological challenge, and post-exercise spirometry. The 25-50% prevalence reported for winter athletes is remarkably higher than the 12-20% reported for the general population. These numbers have lead to speculation of over diagnosis. Alternatively, bronchoconstriction in athletes may be related to dehydration injury or chronic exposure to irritant gases present in ice arenas. The high ventilation rates of these athletes during training and competition clearly put them at greater risk than the general population for airway dysfunction. . . . evidence that suggests the underlying cause of EIA is different between indoor ice arena athletes and outdoor cold weather athletes will be presented" (p. S184).

Implication. High respiratory demands in indoor arenas is a health threat.

Return to Table of Contents for this issue.