Athletes are at heightened risk of health issues due to air pollution. This can lead to respiratory, cardiovascular and neurological problems. Valérie Bougault, writing for The Conversation, highlights the dangers of pollutants like PM2.5, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone. These pollutants can have a negative impact on athletic performance and increase the likelihood of developing diseases.
High levels of pollution from sources like traffic, industrial emissions, wildfires and even indoor sources can significantly impair an athlete’s abilities. In endurance sports, specific pollutants such as ozone and PM2.5 have been linked to longer race times and higher dropout rates.
Bougault emphasizes that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in common products like hand sanitizers, cleaning supplies, air fresheners and new equipment can also contribute to poor air quality. This highlights the need for athletes to be aware of potential sources of pollution in their environments.
Chronic exposure to polluted air can result in serious long-term health consequences including asthma, bronchitis, heart disease and lung cancer. Children and young adults are especially vulnerable as their developing bodies may be more susceptible to the harmful effects of air pollution impacting their growth and overall well-being. It is crucial for athletes to take steps to protect themselves from the dangers of air pollution and prioritize their health and performance.
