Our analysis suggests that accumulating 200 hours in a hypoxic simulated-altitude environment substantially reduces the risk of AMS when subsequently exposed to terrestrial altitude. The effectiveness of this strategy depends on the intervals between pre-acclimatization exposures, the method used, and the target altitude. Observational studies indicate that time spent at simulated altitude can be complemented by time spent at terrestrial altitude. Importantly, while pre-acclimatization exposures can effectively prevent AMS, they do not, per se, enhance endurance performance or mountaineering skills, and factors such as co-existing mental or physical health conditions may influence risk and the effectiveness of prevention.
Burtscher et al. (Wed,) studied this question.