Hypoxia-altitude simulation test to predict altitude-related adverse health effects in COPD patients

Amongst numerous travellers to high altitude (HA) are many with the highly prevalent COPD, who are at particular risk for altitude-related adverse health effects (ARAHE). We then investigated the hypoxia-altitude simulation test (HAST) to predict ARAHE in COPD patients travelling to altitude. This prospective diagnostic accuracy study included 75 COPD patients: 40 women, age 58±9 years, forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV ) 40-80% pred, oxygen saturation measured by pulse oximetry ( ) ≥92% and arterial carbon dioxide tension ( )