Is Beijing Air a Threat to Olympic Athletes?

July 15, 2008

Heavy pollution in the Chinese capital could pose problems for Olympic competitors, especially those with asthma, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI).

The ozone, sulfur dioxide, nitric oxide and other pollutants in Beijing are asthmagenic, meaning exposure can inflame the airways of sensitive people and even cause an asthma attack.

"Not only will athletes have irritated eyes, but a good portion may have decreased potential to be competitive," said Timothy Craig, DO, FAAAAI, and chair of the AAAAI Sports Medicine Committee. "Exercise can enhance the adverse effects air pollutants have on health. Rigorous exercise combined with pollutants can sometimes stimulate an asthma attack."

Exercise-induced asthma (EIA) affects an estimated 20 percent of top athletes and an estimated 1 in 6 of all Olympic athletes, according to the AAAAI. EIA frequently affects individuals who do not suffer from chronic asthma.

In addition to athletes, high pollution levels threaten to take a toll on spectators with a history of allergies or asthma.