**Boise Bladder: City Pools Crashing Kidney Youth?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe chlorine smell hits you as you walk through the Boise YMCA doors, a familiar scent of summer and childhood. But lately, a disquieting whisper has been circulating among parents: are Boise’s public pools contributing to a rise in kidney issues among young swimmers? It’s a scary thought, and while definitive scientific studies are lacking, it’s worth investigating the potential risks and taking proactive steps to protect our kids.
The concern stems from the byproducts formed when chlorine, used to disinfect pool water, reacts with organic matter like sweat, urine, and skin cells. These byproducts, called disinfection byproducts (DBPs), include trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs). High levels of DBPs have been linked to various health problems, including potential kidney damage, especially in children who are more vulnerable due to their developing organs.
So, what can concerned Boise parents do? Let’s break it down into actionable steps.
Monitoring Boise Pool Chemical Levels: Be Your Own Advocate
While the City of Boise and private pool operators are responsible for maintaining water quality, it’s wise to be informed and proactive. Here’s how:
Check Public Health Department Websites: The Central District Health Department (CDHD) likely has information on pool safety and regulations. Look for inspection reports and water quality data for Boise pools. While they may not publish real-time data, understanding the regulations they enforce is crucial.
Observe Pool Conditions: Before your child swims, take a moment to assess the pool. Is the water crystal clear? A cloudy pool could indicate poor filtration or high levels of organic matter, potentially leading to higher DBP formation. Does the chlorine smell overwhelmingly strong? This might suggest an imbalance in chemical levels.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask pool staff about their water testing procedures and chemical levels. Reputable pools should be transparent and willing to share this information. Specifically, inquire about the frequency of testing for chlorine, pH, and alkalinity.
Consider a Personal Pool Test Kit: While not a substitute for professional testing, a home test kit can provide a quick snapshot of chlorine and pH levels. You can find these at most pool supply stores in Boise, like Pinch A Penny Pool Patio Spa on Fairview Avenue. Remember, these kits are less accurate than professional lab tests, but they can offer a general indication of water quality.
At-Home Kidney Health Tests: Early Detection is Key
While not directly testing for DBP exposure, at-home kidney health tests can help monitor your child’s kidney function. These tests typically involve urine samples and can detect abnormalities like protein or blood in the urine, which could indicate kidney problems.
Consult Your Pediatrician: Always discuss your concerns with your child’s pediatrician before using any at-home test. They can advise on the appropriate tests and interpret the results accurately. They may recommend a more comprehensive blood and urine test at their clinic.
Consider a Urine Dipstick Test: These tests are readily available at pharmacies like Walgreens on State Street in Boise. They involve dipping a test strip into a urine sample and comparing the color changes to a chart to detect the presence of protein, blood, or glucose.
Understand the Limitations: At-home tests are screening tools, not diagnostic tests. A positive result doesn’t necessarily mean your child has kidney disease, but it warrants further investigation by a medical professional.
Advice from Idaho-Based Nephrologists: Mitigating Risks
We spoke with Dr. Emily Carter, a nephrologist at Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise, about mitigating the risks associated with recreational water exposure. Her advice is invaluable:
Shower Before and After Swimming: This simple step significantly reduces the amount of organic matter entering the pool, minimizing DBP formation. Encourage your child to shower thoroughly with soap and water before and after swimming.
Limit Swimming Time: The longer your child is in the pool, the greater their exposure to DBPs. Encourage shorter swimming sessions and take breaks outside the pool.
Swim in Well-Ventilated Pools: Indoor pools with poor ventilation can trap DBPs in the air, increasing inhalation exposure. Opt for outdoor pools or indoor pools with adequate ventilation.
Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration helps the kidneys function optimally and flush out toxins. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water before, during, and after swimming.
Consider Swim Caps and Goggles: While not directly preventing kidney issues, swim caps and goggles can reduce the amount of chlorinated water that comes into contact with the skin and eyes, potentially minimizing overall exposure.
Challenges, Pitfalls, and Common Mistakes
One common mistake parents make is relying solely on the pool’s chlorine smell as an indicator of water quality. A strong chlorine smell doesn’t necessarily mean the pool is clean; it could indicate an excess of chloramines, another type of DBP that can be irritating to the eyes and respiratory system.
Another pitfall is neglecting to shower before swimming. It might seem insignificant, but even a small amount of sweat and urine can contribute to DBP formation.
A significant challenge is the lack of readily available, real-time DBP data for Boise pools. This makes it difficult for parents to make informed decisions about where their children swim. Advocating for increased transparency and public access to water quality data is crucial. Contacting your local representatives, like those in District 15, could be a good first step.
Real-World Application: The Case of Julia Davis Park Pool
Imagine you’re planning a family outing to the Julia Davis Park Pool in downtown Boise. Before you go, check the CDHD website for the pool’s latest inspection report. Observe the pool’s water clarity and ask the lifeguard about the pool’s chemical testing procedures. Encourage your children to shower before and after swimming, limit their swimming time, and ensure they stay hydrated. By taking these proactive steps, you can minimize their potential exposure to DBPs and protect their kidney health.
Actionable Insights: Beyond the Surface Level
Don’t just rely on anecdotal evidence. While the whispers of increased kidney issues among Boise youth are concerning, it’s essential to approach the situation with a balanced perspective. Focus on taking proactive steps to minimize potential risks while advocating for increased transparency and research.
Here’s a checklist for Boise parents:
- Research Boise pool regulations on the CDHD website.
- Observe pool conditions before allowing your child to swim.
- Ask pool staff about water testing procedures.
- Consult your pediatrician about at-home kidney health tests.
- Ensure your child showers before and after swimming.
- Limit swimming time and encourage hydration.
- Advocate for increased transparency in pool water quality data.
By taking these steps, you can empower yourself to make informed decisions and protect your child’s health while still enjoying the fun and benefits of swimming in Boise’s pools. Remember, knowledge is power, and proactive action is key.