Abstract
Summary
The mean hemoglobin level of persons of Tibetan ancestry living at 4000 m in the Nepal Himalayas was found similar to that expected at an altitude of 2300 m and an arterial O2 saturation of 92%. Plasma volumes were normal, and deficiency states and hemoglobinopathies were not significant. Possible reasons for this finding are discussed.
The authors thank Dr. B. R. Baidya, Director General, and Dr. N. K. Shah, Chief Epidemiologist, His Majesty's Government Directorate of Health Services, Nepal, for their approval and assistance in carrying out this study, and Drs. C. R. Valeri and C. G. Zaroulis of the U.S. Naval Blood Research Laboratory, Chelsea, MA, for the 2,3-DPG, ATP and lactate levels. Supported by PHS Grant No. 5 R07 AI 10048-13.
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