Experienced, recreational scuba divers in Australia continue to dive despite medical contraindications.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: In Australia, a medical examination is required before undertaking a scuba diving course in order to screen for contraindications to diving. No further medical screening is required, and yet divers may develop diseases during their diving careers. This study aimed to survey experienced recreational scuba divers to determine the prevalence of diseases contraindicated in diving. METHODS: A cross-sectional, postal survey was taken of divers belonging to scuba diving clubs across Australia. RESULTS: Three hundred forty-six divers returned completed questionnaires. Two hundred fifty-four (73.4%) were male, and 258 (74.6%) were aged 31 to 60 years. The mean years of diving equaled 10.6 ..