Experimental medicine on the

The world's tallest study of the cure for Mount Everest seems to be a strange idea, but for doctors at the University of London (UK), this harsh place is ideal for setting up a laboratory. .

The purpose of these climbing enthusiasts is to understand the impact of oxygen deprivation on the body, the vital issue for patients in intensive care areas. Therefore, they chose 'the roof of the world' , where the oxygen content is only one third of that of the ground.

Dr. Grocott is practicing on the mountain (Photo: BBC)

In April, they will conduct a series of experiments with themselves and 224 volunteers from the UK at a camp located at an altitude of 5,300 m. After that, a small group will climb to the top of the mountain to take blood samples and repeat some similar tests. Before coming to Kathmandu (Nepal), these volunteers were tested to determine the body's ability to absorb oxygen while on the ground.

After 32 different tests, the team will compare the results of oxygen uptake on the ground and the mountain to find out why some people adapt well to low oxygen levels, and physiological activity will replace How to change in the above conditions.

Tests include measuring blood circulation, the impact of elevation on mental functions and measuring their cycling speed during the half-way up the mountain. Lead researcher Mike Grocott said it would be invaluable data on the body's response to oxygen deprivation, helping scientists find better treatment for patients who need special care.

Hoang Hoang