National Swimming Pool Foundation to support CDCÂ’s Healthy Swimming Project
COLORADO SPRINGS, CO (PRWEB) January 22, 2004
The National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) is pleased to announce it has awarded the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Foundation a grant to support research for its Healthy Swimming Project. The grant will further the effort to prevent the spread of illness in recreational water.
Funding from NSPF will allow CDC scientists to conduct research on the chemical, microbiologic, and sampling/testing aspects pertinent to the spread of illnesses associated with the use of treated recreational water venues such as pools, hot tubs, and water parks.
“There is a compelling need to get some answers on the spread of recreational water illnesses. NSPF is working to remedy the knowledge gap in this situation by providing much needed funding to get this study started.” says NSPF’s Chief Executive Officer, Thomas M. Lachocki. NSPF’s goal in funding a study of this subject is that it ultimately results in improved prevention guidelines for pool operators, public health officials, and the public. “The educational documents that result from this NSPF/CDC research will help reduce recreational water illness and highlight the health benefits of aquatic exercise,” added Lachocki.
NSPF will consider additional grant requests starting in April of 2004. Highest priority will be given to grant proposals that focus on demonstrating the health benefits of aquatic activities. “Now that we have invested in reducing the risk associated with recreational water, it is time to reinvigorate our effort to research and communicate the benefits of aquatic activities,” said Cory Willis, Chairman of the Grant Review Committee and a member of the NSPF Board of Directors. Increases in the prevalence of obesity, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure in adults and children are well documented and can be reduced by exercise and diet.
The goal of CDCÂ’s Healthy Swimming project is to study and provide information for swimmers, pool operators, and public health professionals. It further enhances the swimming experience by raising awareness about the spread of recreational water illnesses.
The National Swimming Pool Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving public health by creating a safer aquatic environment through education and research and attracting more people to aquatic exercise. The Foundation’s Certified Pool and Spa Operator©(CPO) program is the leading education and certification program for pool and spa operators providing front-line defense to protect the public. The NSPF also offers aquatic facility management software. Information about NSPF grant applications and educational programs are available at www. nspf. org.
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