High Altitude Residents With High Altitude Pulmonary Hypertension (HAPH), 6MWT Assessed at High Altitude (3200m) vs Low Altitude (760m)

Comparative Study of 6-minute Walk Distance (6MWD) in Patients With High Altitude Pulmonary Hypertension Permanently Residing Above 2500 Meters When Assessed Near Resident High Altitude (HA) at 3200m vs. at Low Altitude (LA) 760m

To study the effect of relocation from 3200m (Aksay) to 760m (Bishkek) in highlanders with High Altitude Pulmonary Hypertension (HAPH) who permanently live >2500m on 6-minute walk distance (6MWD)

This research in highlanders with HAPH diagnosed by echocardiography and defined by a RV/RA >30 mmHg who permanently live at HA >2500 m will perform a 6-minute walk distance test near their living altitude in Aksay at 3200 m and on day 2 and 7 at 760 m after relocation

Inclusion Criteria:

• Permanently living >2500 m
• HAPH diagnosed with a minimum RV/RA of 30 mmHg assessed by echocardiography at an altitude of 3200 m
• Written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Highlanders who cannot follow the study investigations,
• Patients with moderate to severe concomitant lung disease (FEV1<70% or forced vital capacity <70%), severe parenchymal lung disease, heavy smoking >20 cigarettes/day or >20 pack-years.
• Coexistent unstable systemic hypertension or coronary artery disease that required adjustment of medication within the last 2 months
• Regular use of medication that affects control of breathing (benzodiazepines, opioids, acetazolamide)