EFFECT OF MODERATELY HIGH-ALTITUDE ON THE PATTERN OF LUNG-DISEASE

In high altitude areas, inspired atmospheric oxygen decreases proporti onally to the vertical distance from sea level. Population in these ar eas acquire some adaptive mechanisms to cope with the relatively hypox ic environment. This study compares populations who live in highland a reas (2500 meters above sea level) with those in lowland areas (close to sea level). No differences were observed in the prevalence or morta lity rate of respiratory diseases between these two groups. It is conc luded that even if adaptive mechanisms can be observed in dwellers of moderately high altitude (<3000 m above sea level), such altitude does not adversely affect the pattern of respiratory disease in these popu lations. However, partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) tends to be lower in individuals of high altitude areas, leading to marked oxygen desatu ration when such individuals encounter a significant respiratory illne ss. Physicians are advised to introduce early and effective therapeuti c measures before such deterioration occurs.