Physical Exercise at High Altitudes Increases Erythropoietin Hormone Secretion: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: To investigate and quantify the mechanism by which exercise at high altitude increases the release of the erythropoietin hormone. Methods: This study examines many journal databases, such as Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus. Among the criteria considered in this study were articles published within the last five years, as well as those on erythropoietin, physical activity, and high-altitude training. We only rejected publications published in anonymous journals for inclusion in this analysis. We successfully identified 2510 papers in total using the Embase, Web of Science, Pubmed, and Scopus databases. We have looked at and reviewed approximately ten papers that address the requirements for this systemic breakthrough. We developed standard operating procedures for the current investigation using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). Results: The systemic analysis reveals that physical activity at altitude elevates the hormone erythropoietin, leading to an increase in erythrocyte count. Furthermore, it can improve physical performance by increasing oxygen delivery to cells, thereby potentially triggering energy system function. Conclusions: Anaerobic physical exercise at an altitude of 4000-5000 m for a minimum of four weeks can have a real impact on increasing levels of the hormone erythropoietin. For further research and analysis, it is advisable to find out what genes trigger the release of the hormone erythropoietin.