Signing the kids up for swimming classes this fall? Well, you should read this. Three recent studies published in "Environmental Health Perspectives" showed that swimming in chlorinated water can create respiratory distress.

Chlorinated water taken from a public swimming pool was tested and more than 100 chemical byproducts were found in the water, and many of them were toxic. Additionally, 50 adults swam laps for 40 minutes after which they had their blood tested. They found that swimming led to a rise in a marker that indicated an increase in the ease of which the lung lining can be penetrated. Scientists believe this to indicate a higher risk for asthma. Previous studies have shown high rates of asthma in lifeguards and competitive swimmers, as well.

The researchers also looked for markers for cancer. After 40 minutes of swimming, the research showed a large rise in markers of DNA damage that can lead to cancer. How does this happen? Chlorine gets into our bodies through the skin and reacts with organic material on our bodies to create toxic byproducts. Chlorine also gets into our lungs by breathing the air close to the swimming pool. Chemicals can become more volatile at the surface of the water where swimmers take a breath.

What can we do?
Showering before getting into the pool! This washes off much of the organic material that reacts with chlorine to produce toxic byproducts. The shower is not only for the cleanliness of the pool. It's for your personal health as well.

Promote and look for chlorine alternatives
Ozone and ultraviolet are the two most commonly cited technologies. Although few and far between, ozone is used instead of chlorine at select swimming pools. One of the few is a chemical-free public swimming pool in Alabama. Ozone is not more widely adopted due to the higher initial cost. However, over the life of the pool, Ozone technology promises to reduce operating and maintenance costs and be easier on our bodies.

Swimming is great exercise and ironically, a recommended exercise for asthmatics.  Just be aware of your exposure to chlorinated pools. 

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References:
http://news.discovery.com/human/chlorinated-pools-swimming-cancer.html
http://swimming.about.com/od/allergyandasthma/a/cl_pool_problem_3.htm