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Respiratory Problems Associated with Surfing in Coastal Waters
Chris O'Halloran1, Mary W Silver2, Maureen Lahiff3
1Healthy Oceans, Healthy People, P.O. Box 7566, Santa Cruz, CA, 95061, USA. cohallo@healthyoceanshealthypeople.org.
Ecohealth
|November 10, 2016
Summary
Surfers in Monterey Bay experienced more upper respiratory symptoms, especially during red tides. Female surfers and those with allergies were more prone to these symptoms, indicating potential health risks from seawater exposure.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Marine Biology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Surfers are frequently exposed to coastal waters, necessitating an understanding of potential health risks.
- Seawater quality, including microbial content and algal toxins, can impact human health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the health status of surfers in Monterey Bay.
- To investigate adverse health effects linked to seawater exposure, specifically microbial indicators and phytoplankton toxins.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving 48 surfers who completed online health surveys.
- Analysis using descriptive statistics and generalized estimating equations to identify health trends and correlations.
Main Results:
- Surfers were generally healthy but commonly experienced allergies and asthma.
- 10% reported gastrointestinal and 29% upper respiratory symptoms.
- Upper respiratory symptoms were linked to a history of allergies, housemates' symptoms, and surfing during red tides. Female surfers reported more upper respiratory symptoms than males.
Conclusions:
- Surfing in Monterey Bay is associated with an increased risk of upper respiratory symptoms, particularly during red tide events.
- Pre-existing allergies and gender are significant factors influencing symptom prevalence in surfers.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the health impacts of seawater exposure on surfers.
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