Athletes face heightened health risks from air pollution, which can negatively impact their performance and increase their chances of developing diseases. Valérie Bougault, writing for The Conversation, highlights the dangers associated with pollutants like PM2.5, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone, which can lead to respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological issues.
High levels of pollution, stemming from sources like traffic, industrial emissions, wildfires, and even indoor sources, can significantly impair athletes’ 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 underlines the need for athletes to be aware of the 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.