Chronic mountain sickness in ladakh

Chronic Mountain Sickness (CMS) is a serious high-altitude condition affecting millions worldwide—yet little was known about its impact in Ladakh until now. In the largest study ever conducted in the region, our team from the Ladakh Institute of Prevention and A Thousand Metres Above Foundation surveyed nearly 400 residents living between 4000–5000m. The results were striking: CMS affects 30% overall, and nearly 60% in the highest altitude region of Rubsho. These findings, presented at the International Conference on Emergency Medicine (ICEM) 2025 in Montreal, shed new light on how altitude, lifestyle, and environment intersect—and why Ladakh’s high-altitude communities need tailored strategies to manage this hidden health threat. 

​More information and detailed report can be found here.