Background: EIB presents a significant challenge for athletes and recreational exercisers, affecting health and performance. Despite the popularity of cycling as an aerobic activity, the link between EIB and cyclists remains poorly understood. Objective: To assess the EIB among cyclists in Jeddah, KSA. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, self-volunteered participants from Jeddah cyclist groups were categorized into beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels based on experience and endurance. Laboratory at room temperature. The exercise challenge involved a rapid increase in exercise intensity over approximately 2-5 min to achieve a speed of 30 km/h or above, sustained for at least 5-6 min to achieve a heart rate of 80-90% of the predicted maximum. Pulmonary function tests were conducted at baseline, 15 min, and 30 min post-exercise, following ATS/ERS guidelines. A fall in FEV1 of ≥ 10% was considered positive for EIB. The study was immediately halted if participants experienced respiratory difficulties, and emergency measures, including short-acting beta2-agonists and oxygen therapy, were administered. Results: A total of 56 participants were enrolled, with 30% classified as beginners and 35% each as intermediate and advanced-level cyclists. Among the participants, 56% were male and 44% were female. The average baseline spirometry of the participants was 83.4 ± 0.40% of the predicted value. The results revealed no significant changes in FEV1, FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio, and mid-expiratory flow among intermediate to advanced-level cyclists. However, there was a transient reduction in spirometry values immediately post 15 min, which was statistically insignificant. Interestingly, beginners exhibited a notable 12% reduction in FEV1 immediately post 15 min exercise (baseline 3.99 ± 0.91 to 3.72 ± 0.97, a P-value of .003). However, spirometry values returned to normal levels at 30 min post-exercise. This suggests a temporary impact of exercise on lung function among novice cyclists, potentially indicative of EIB. Conclusions: We found there is no exercise-induced bronchoconstriction among intermediate to advanced level cyclists. However, beginners reported a reduction in FEV1 at 15 min, which was relieved subsequently. Further research is essential to elucidate the mechanisms and risk factors associated with EIB in cyclists.
Jose et al. (Tue,) studied this question.