The Chinese government is busy trying to improve Beijing's air quality before the Games by implementing various industrial and civic measures, including closing factories and limiting automobile use. The hope is that these actions will reduce levels of carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and small particulate matter. Carbon monoxide reduces oxygen to the blood and, ultimately, the working muscles. Additionally, the other components can aggravate and perhaps cause exercise-induced asthma.
Will the measures significantly reduce the pollution? Will athletes suffer short-term decreases in performance? Will any athletes suffer long-term effects?
We won't know until the Beijing Games begin, and perhaps for years after they end.
References
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