Respiratory problems in rowers: outcomes from a systematic assessment of an elite squad

To characterise the respiratory health of elite rowers using a systematic screening approach to assess respiratory health (SARAH) and identify the associations between SARAH findings and acute respiratory illness (ARI) and chest wall injury (CWI).

A systematic screening approach was conducted in a cohort of elite rowers. The assessment employed validated respiratory questionnaires and multiple physiological measures. An analysis of ARI and CWI incidence and burden from the 18 months before the SARAH assessment was conducted.

Full respiratory surveillance was completed in 48 rowers (50% female, aged 27 [25-28] years). The incidence and burden of ARI were similar between male and female rowers. The incidence of CWI was greater in female rowers compared to males (1.6 versus 0.4 per 1000 athlete training days, respectively; incidence rate ratio of 4.3, 95% C.I. 1.5 to 12.2, p=0.005) and more common in younger rowers with greater lung function. SARAH detected at least one respiratory problem in 39 (81%) rowers, and two or more problems in 26 (54%). Sino-nasal problems (44%), allergy-related problems (42%) and breathing pattern disorder (42%) were the most prevalent problems identified. Exercise-associated cough was reported in 34 (71%) rowers, with objective evidence of asthma found in only five (10%).

In elite rowers, respiratory problems, including ARI and CWI, are common and impact health. A systematic screening approach identifies multiple underlying respiratory problems, presenting the opportunity to optimise athlete health and improve training availability.