What factor is measured during a treadmill test for athletes with cystic fibrosis?

During a treadmill test for athletes with cystic fibrosis, measuring oxygen saturation is crucial because cystic fibrosis affects the lungs and can lead to reduced lung function and compromised gas exchange. Monitoring oxygen saturation allows clinicians to assess how well the athlete's body is able to take up oxygen during physical exertion, providing insight into their respiratory status and fitness level.

In athletes with cystic fibrosis, efficient oxygen delivery to the muscles is essential, and any significant drop in oxygen saturation during exercise can indicate underlying respiratory issues that may need to be addressed. This is vital for optimizing training and performance while ensuring the athlete’s safety during intense physical activities.

While heart rate, blood pressure, and lung capacity are relevant measurements in various sports medicine assessments, they do not directly reflect the specific challenges faced by individuals with cystic fibrosis during exercise as accurately as oxygen saturation does.