London pollution may pose problems for competing athletes

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - The Opening Ceremony of the 2012 Summer Olympic Games is just days away, and some allergists are warning that London's air pollution could cause breathing problems for some of the competing athletes. One specialist says the amount of nitrogen dioxide in London is comparable to the level in Beijing before the Chinese government banned use of half the cars there in preparation for the 2008 Games. Doctor William Silvers warns that athletes with asthma or other exercise-induced respiratory problems could experience difficultly. Silvers says marathon runners are particularly at risk.