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Updated: Feb 12, 2026

Author Spotlight: Integrating Alveolar-Capillary Reserve Measurements in Exercise Adaptation and Therapeutic Strategies
Published on: February 2, 2024
Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction and the Air We Breathe
Kenneth W Rundell1, James M Smoliga2, Valérie Bougault3
1Department of Basic Sciences, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, 525 Pine Street, Scranton, PA 18510, USA.
Abstract:
An association between airway dysfunction and airborne pollutant inhalation exists. Volatilized airborne fluorocarbons in ski wax rooms, particulate matter, and trichloromines in indoor environments are suspect to high prevalence of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction and new-onset asthma in athletes competing in cross-country skiing, ice rink sports, and swimming. Ozone is implicated in acute decreases in lung function and the development of new-onset asthma from exposure during exercise. Mechanisms and genetic links are proposed for pollution-related new-onset asthma. Oxidative stress from airborne pollutant inhalation is a common thread to progression of airway damage. Key pollutants and mechanisms for each are discussed.
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