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Lead Stories: Saturday, September 6, 2008

Exercise and Air Pollution: Exposure may increase risk of lung, cardiovascular damage

Posted July 9th, 2007 at 7:10 PM by Bridget Sullivan

Section: Health & Fitness

The American Council of Sports Medicine (ACSM) released the following news article on exercise and air pollution May 31, 2007.

An unfortunate aspect of today’s environment is the significant amount of noxious air pollutants including ozone, carbon monoxide, fine and ultrafine particulates. This problem is especially troublesome in urban settings, near major highways, and in indoor ice arenas. Exercising while exposed to air pollution puts people at increased risk of lung and cardiovascular damage. A featured science session at the 54th Annual Meeting of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) addressed the issue of exercise and air pollution, outlining the dangers of air pollution and possible actions to help reduce risks from exposure.

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A Breath of Fresh Air:
The respiratory benefits of a Mediterranean diet

Posted May 28th, 2007 at 12:22 PM by Jessica Galvano

Section: Nutrition, Healthy Eating, Health & Fitness

As runners, we are often conscious of healthy eating habits. Even if the occasional fast food lunch gets us off track, we remain generally aware of what we put into our bodies. But why then do we concern ourselves with the hamburger and fries we had for lunch? In most cases, we witness the negative consequences of these dietary “slip-ups” in the prevalence of obesity and cardiovascular problems.

However, a recent study suggests that perhaps our diet affects more than just our weight and cholesterol. According to Dr. Varraso, a researcher at Inserm, a French research institute, there is a direct correlation between diet and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, COPD—a condition that inhibits regular respiration and in its later stages, physical activity.

The American Lung Association recognizes COPD as an emerging killer in the United States. The disease, which refers specifically to emphysema and chronic bronchitis, now ranks as the fourth cause of death in America and claims over 120,000 lives each year. Although most commonly the result of smoking, Dr. Varraso’s research identifies diet as an additional contributor to the development of respiratory problems.
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