The Effects Of Chlorine In Swimming

Every day, three hours a day, training occurs place in the humble pool of the UNE Northeasters. The season starts off strong, yet midway through there is exacerbation of some swimmers’ asthma. Last year I identified potential contributors to this problem by observing my teammates and examining symptoms. The considerable drop in stamina, strength, and quality of life for my fellow swimmers empowered the drive to determine what change was needed. Light conversation between sets soon transformed to urgent coughs and gasps for air. I researched the issue extensively and utilized the osteopathic medicine students, athletic trainers, databases and library resources to collect information. The insurmountable research proved my hypothesis that chlorine was causing the worsening of asthma symptoms throughout the year.
This poses a serious health threat, not only to the swim team members and lifeguards but also to the community of Biddeford, Maine, who participate in outreach swimming programs designed for children and older adults. Their health is greatly affected by the poor filters, low ceilings and a build up of byproduct gases observed in the university pool. Within my research I learned that other schools were discovering the harmful affects of chlorine in their pools as well. With other communities and colleges creating the positive change toward bromide, we can look at their transformation process and learn from their