[Recommendations for high-altitude travel in individuals with cardiorespiratory diseases]

The World Tourism Organization estimates that between 195 and 375 million people traveled to high altitudes in 2019. The high prevalence of cardiorespiratory diseases in the general population, combined with the increasing number of elderly travelers, suggests that a significant proportion of these individuals may have underlying health conditions. Hypoxia, the main physiological challenge at high altitude, requires adaptive responses from the cardiorespiratory system, which are often impaired in patients with cardiac or pulmonary diseases. This population is at particular risk of decompensation and altitude intolerance symptoms. Therefore, a thorough medical assessment, including evaluation of comorbidities and consultation with a mountain medicine specialist, may be essential prior to high-altitude travel or long-haul flights.