Summary
This observational cohort study from the Xtreme Everest expeditions characterised physiological responses during high-altitude ascent and identified predictors of acute mountain sickness. Lower oxygen saturation and absence of prior exposure above 5000 m were significant independent predictors of moderate-to-severe AMS. The authors propose the Xtreme Everest Step-Test as a simple, reproducible field-based screening tool, though acknowledge its modest predictive precision.
UK applicability
These findings on AMS prediction may inform pre-expedition health screening for UK-based mountaineers and high-altitude workers. The proposed step-test could be integrated into occupational health assessments for UK personnel planning high-altitude deployment, though clinical utility in routine UK healthcare settings is limited.
Key measures
Oxygen saturation (SpO₂); previous high-altitude exposure history (≥5000 m); acute mountain sickness incidence (moderate-to-severe); Xtreme Everest Step-Test performance
Outcomes reported
The study characterised physiological responses during high-altitude ascent and identified predictive factors for acute mountain sickness (AMS) development. Oxygen saturation levels and prior altitude exposure history were evaluated as prognostic markers, and a field-based screening test was proposed.
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