Swimming found beneficial for asthmatic children
18 October
An extensive study by European scientists has found swimming does not increase the risk of asthma or allergic symptoms in children.
Swimming regularly in chlorinated pools does not cause asthma in children, but can in fact improve their lung health. - Asthma UK
Instead, the study – published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine – concluded swimming is linked with increased lung function and a lower chance of asthmatic symptoms.
Using detailed information on 5,738 children’s health and activities since birth, the study found swimming to be particularly beneficial for children with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Swimming has traditionally been promoted as a positive activity for asthmatic children with double Olympic champion Rebecca Adlington and Jo Jackson two of a number of elite British swimmers who have asthma.
And charity Asthma UK admit the results coincide with their stance on swimming and young asthmatics.
“This is the first study examining the relationship between swimming and asthma where the information has been collected from children who have been monitored over many years,” said Asthma UK Research Relations Manager, Dr Elaine Vickers.
“This large, well-designed study therefore suggests that swimming regularly in chlorinated pools does not cause asthma in children, but can in fact improve their lung health.”
For more information on Asthma UK, click here.
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7.50am 22nd October 2010
Chris Cottrell - Web Journalist from LoughboroughThank you Peter. Feel free to use the information at your club.
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8.37pm 21st October 2010
Peter Budd from Wales, UKThank you highlighting this information regarding asthma and swimming.
May I please put this excellent information onto our club noticeboard for everyone to see.
