PEF measurement as a method to detect exercise-induced bronchospasm in young athletes

Background. Exercise-induced bronchospasm a short lived airways obstruction occuring immediately or 30 min after moderate exercise, can affect up to 90% of asthmatics and 35% of subjects without clinical evidence of asthma (including selected categories such as athletes). Asthma morbidity and mortality have increased over the past several years, especially among the lower classes of society. PEF measurement is a test for screening. Methods. We studied 60 young male football players who underwent a 1 mile free running (outdoor run), preceeded by an acquaintance session