You may be shocked to learn that one of the all time favorite summer past times has been linked to cancer, asthma, and reduced lung function. No, I’m not referring to tanning. Swimming regularly in pools may actually increase your risk of certain health conditions. How can this be? Regular exposure to chlorine increases your risk of certain cancers and other chronic conditions.
The disinfecting chemical, chlorine, is often used to keep swimming pools clean. But studies have found that individuals exposed to chlorine on a regular basis have an increased risk of bladder cancer. When chlorine is combined with the leaves and dirt that often find their way into pools, they combine to form a toxic substance that can even increase the risk of miscarriage and birth defects. Children that have a predisposition to asthma will be at even higher risk if exposed to chlorine regularly.
So what can you do to avoid these problems? Consider using an alternative method for cleaning your pool. Silver-copper ion generators are a viable alternative. If you are not the person responsible for choosing the disinfecting agent, you can take other precautions. Limit the exposure to chlorine. Swim in outdoor pools. Avoid highly chlorinated pools. And don’t swim in pools with chlorine daily.