CHANGES IN THE COGNITIVE STATE IN HYPOBARIC HYPOXIC CONDITIONS IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

Objective: To assess any change in the cognitive state in individuals working at high altitude. Study Design: Descriptive study.
Place and Duration of Study: Conducted in the heights of the northern areas of Pakistan, from January to May 2005.
Patients and Methods: A total of 129 volunteers were selected from the individuals on duty at high altitude. Mini Mental State Examination were administered to this cohort, while on their heights of deployment.
Results: Cognitive efficiency was found to be reduced in these individuals. This deficiency was mostly in the range of „mild‟ cognitive disturbance.
Conclusions: Exposure to High Altitude can lead to problems with various domains of the cognition.