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Blood Pressure Changes While Hiking at Moderate Altitudes: A Prospective Cohort Study
Ky B Stoltzfus1, David Naylor1, Tessa Cattermole2
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas, KS 66160, USA.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
|November 4, 2020
Summary
Recreational mountain hiking at moderate altitudes is safe for most adults. This study found a slight blood pressure increase, especially in those with hypertension or obesity, but no severe cardiovascular events occurred.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Altitude Medicine
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Recreational mountain hiking is a popular activity.
- Understanding the cardiovascular response to moderate altitude exposure is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure blood pressure (BP) changes during a 10-day moderate-altitude trek.
- To identify risks of uncontrolled hypertension and adverse cardiovascular outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Observational study of 1279 adults during a 10-day hike (6500-13,000 feet).
- Resting BP measured using sphygmomanometer and auscultation at set intervals.
- Collected data on demographics, health status, and lifestyle factors.
Main Results:
- Mean blood pressure increased across the cohort at moderate altitudes.
- Blood pressure elevations were more pronounced in participants with pre-existing hypertension and/or obesity.
- No life-threatening cardiovascular events were observed during the trek.
Conclusions:
- Moderate-altitude hiking appears safe for individuals with controlled blood pressure up to 160/95 mmHg.
- Further monitoring may be beneficial for hikers with hypertension or obesity.
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