Asthma Diagnosis, Knowledge and Awareness among Recreational Endurance Athletes:

Abstract

Objective: Limited research exists on recreational-level competitors regarding asthma and/or comorbidity. The present purpose was to conduct a study in conjunction with the 2008 ING Georgia Marathon and Half-Marathon in Atlanta.Methods: The authors conducted an online secure survey in winter 2008 using PsychData, using previously validated questions from other research and national surveys. Data were summarized from participating recreational athletes on sociodemographic attributes; training locations; participant and family member diagnosis of asthma; and participant knowledge and awareness of signs, symptoms, and management.Results: There were 1151 participants (99.4%) who provided informed consent and then answered the survey (more than 10% of initially registered athletes); 7 athletes (0.6%) did not consent. There were complete data for 1138 participants (98%). Most participants were women (56.2%), white (88.2%), and of a relatively higher socioeconomic status than the general population. Most partici...