Erythropoietin and Hematological Responses in Recreational Scuba Divers: Insight into the Hyperoxic-Hypoxic Paradox

Key Points

• The study aims to explore how erythropoietin levels are affected by recreational scuba diving and its impact on hematological measures.
• Conducted three dives over two days with participants diving recreationally for 21 weeks.
• Measured red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, and hematocrit levels before and after dives.
• Assessed changes in erythropoietin levels during successive dives.
• No significant changes in RBC count, hemoglobin concentration, or hematocrit observed.
• Erythropoietin levels increased progressively during the successive dives, indicating physiological responses.
• Further investigation is needed to understand the biological mechanisms behind erythropoietin changes.