Prevalence and mechanisms of development of asthma and airway hyperresponsiveness in athletes

A high prevalence of asthma and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) has been r eported in the athlete population. Factors potentially predisposing athlete s to these conditions have not been clearly identified. Although moderate e xercise has been shown to be beneficial in patients with asthma, repeated h igh-intensity exercise could possibly contribute to the development of asth ma and AHR. This report provides an overview of the prevalence and possible mechanisms of development of asthma and AHR in the athlete population. The prevalence of asthma and AHR are higher in athletes than in the general po pulation, particularly in swimmers and athletes performing sports in cold a ir environments. Possible mechanisms involved in the development of asthma in athletes are still uncertain; however, the content and physical characte ristics of the inhaled air seem to be important factors, while immune and n eurohumoral influences could play a modulatory role. This report stresses t he need for further studies to better define the aetiologic factors and mec hanisms involved in the development of asthma and AHR in athletes, and prop oses relevant preventive and therapeutic measures.