Hidden dangers in swimming pools

Swimming 30 lengths regularly or relaxing in the gym hot tub might seem like healthy choices. But a new study warns that these apparently harmless activities may have a hidden risk.

United States (U.S.) scientists have discovered the existence of harmful compounds in hot tubs and swimming pools, which occur when sun-tan lotion, sweat – and urine – react with chlorine and other chemicals used to keep pool water clean.

Previous studies have shown that disinfection by-products can cause genetic damage to cells in laboratory settings.

Other studies have looked at associations between pool water and bladder cancer and respiratory conditions such as asthma.

In the new report from the American Chemical Society, scientists tested water from public and private hot tubs and pools, from tap to basin, after both normal and intense use.

They identified more than 100 disinfection by-products in the water and tested extracts of the samples for their potential to cause genetic damage to cells in the lab.