This project began as an independent MATH 0500 project. Blood-oxygen saturation levels of patients in various high altitude (>7,000 ft) were collected with the goal of using statistical analysis and mathematical models to answer two questions in the field of high-altitude wilderness medicine—1) for a given person, how does altitude affect blood-oxygen saturation? and 2) what additional factors affect individuals’ blood-oxygen saturation differently? Results are now being used to refine future experimental design and as a representation of the greater scope of the field. Factors such as energy expenditure at altitude and injury likelihood as it relates to backpack weight have been accurately predicted with the use of models. The goal of the project is to create a forum to share ideas and research in wilderness medicine that uses mathematical models. Results would allow others to see the potential of mathematical models to quantify seemingly unapproachable backcountry health issues.
