Author(s): NIVET, L., PRICE, O.J., BONINI, M., CHANEZ, P., ADAMI, P.E., BERMON, S., GARRANDES, F., BOUGAULT, V. , Institution: UNIVERSITÉ CÔTE D'AZUR, LAMHESS, Country: FRANCE, Abstract-ID: 226

INTRODUCTION:
Pollen allergies are highly prevalent worldwide and represent a substantial public health concern, particularly for individuals engaging in outdoor physical activity. Although regular exercise is widely recognised for its health benefits, exposure to airborne pollen during physical activity may exacerbate allergic symptoms and respiratory impairment. Evidence on how pollen exposure during exercise affects health outcomes, performance, and physical activity or sport participation remains fragmented. The objective of this scoping review was to map the extent and characteristics of the existing evidence on these effects in athletic or physically active individuals.
METHODS:
A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and reported following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. In January 2025, 4 databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and SportDiscus) were systematically searched for primary studies reporting health or performance outcomes in exercising individuals exposed to pollen. Reviews and guidelines were excluded.
RESULTS:
Of the 3,345 records identified, 18 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most studies were conducted in children and young adults with allergic conditions such as rhinitis and/or asthma. Seasonal pollen exposure was primarily examined in relation to respiratory health outcomes, with consistent reports of impaired post-exercise lung function, reduced sport participation, lower perceived training capacity, and impaired quality of life. Objective performance outcomes were rarely assessed. Considerable heterogeneity was observed in study designs, outcome measures, and definitions of pollen exposure.
CONCLUSION:
Pollen exposure appears to have an adverse effect on the health and perceived performance of exercising individuals with pollen sensitisation, particularly those with asthma. Our findings highlight the need for research into the impact of pollen exposure on physiological responses to exercise and objective performance outcomes. This research is necessary to develop guidelines that ensure the safety of physical activity in pollen-rich environments.