Effect of Supplemental Oxygen Therapy on Neurocognitive Performance in Healthy Highlanders

Effect of Supplemental Oxygen Therapy on Neurocognitive Performance in Healthy Highlanders

Exposure to high altitudes, defined as locations above 2500 m, has been shown to cause cognitive alternations due to reduced blood oxygenation (SpO2). However, it remains to be determined whether cognitive changes are present in highlanders living at moderate altitudes (2500 m) and whether cognitive alterations are reversible with supplemental oxygen therapy (SOT).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Signed written consent
• Age >18
• Kyrgyz ethnicity
• Born, raised and living at approximately 2500 m
• Native or fluent in Russian language

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe disease such as unstable hypertension, coronary heart disease, pulmonary diseases, others.
• Regular use of medication that interfere with sleep or breathing such as benzodiazepines, opioids, acetazolamide
• Heavy smoking of >20 cigarettes per day
• Not able to read or adhere to the study protocol