Normal Physiological Values of Heart Rate, Respiratory Rate, Oxygen Saturation, Blood Pressure, and Hematocrit in Inhabitants of the Cajamarca Region Residing at Altitudes above 1000 Meters above Sea Level.

Abstract

Objective: The main objective is to determine the normal physiological values of heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and hematocrit in populations living at altitudes between 1,000 and 3,500 meters above sea level in the Cajamarca Region during the year 2023. Methods: The study design was a descriptive observational cross-sectional study with a non-probabilistic sampling method. Inclusion criteria considered inhabitants aged 1 to 70 years, of both sexes, both native and non-native, who had resided for more than one year at the measured altitude and agreed to participate by signing the informed consent form. In the case of minors, consent was obtained from their parents. Exclusion criteria included a history of cardiovascular, pulmonary, or hematological disease; presence of respiratory symptoms at the time of the test such as cough, sputum, or dyspnea; diagnosis of obesity; body mass index greater than or equal to 30; and regular smoking. The total population included 476 individuals. Statistical analysis was performed using R Project software, and non-parametric statistical tests such as the Kruskal-Wallis test were applied. Results: Significant differences were found by sex in heart rate, respiratory rate, and hematocrit. Additionally, all physiological variables measured showed statistically significant differences according to sex, altitude, and life course. Conclusion: This study is relevant as it establishes a baseline for vital signs and hematocrit values in high-altitude populations. It is the first study of its kind conducted in the Cajamarca Region and represents a starting point for future research in high-altitude medicine.