The Role of Hypoxia in Human Health and Disease

The condition characterized by an inadequate supply of oxygen, at the level of tissues, in a region of the body is termed as hypoxia. This can arise due to decreased partial pressures of oxygen, insufficient available hemoglobin, and problems with the diffusion of oxygen in the lungs, breathing rhythm and blood flow. It may be classified as generalized or local. Generalized hypoxia can happen when people ascend to high altitudes, leading to potentially fatal consequences including high altitude cerebral edema and high altitude pulmonary edema. It can also occur when individuals breathe in a mixture of gases with low oxygen content. Hypoxia is a common complication of premature births when the lungs are not fully formed. Within minutes after the symptoms of hypoxia have set in, the brain, liver and other vital organs can be damaged. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the understanding of the role of hypoxia in human health and disease. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to this medical condition. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make this book an invaluable source of knowledge.