Latest news and interesting facts from the world of alpine and high altitude medicine
BiALP, a non-profit association of students and resident physicians dedicated to research in mountain medicine, is currently conducting a scientific study on avalanche airbags to understand the perception of this device and the recommendations of mountain professionals such as ski instructors, mountain guides, and rescue services. The project aims to
BExMed has updated its research prize. ÖGAHM members are also eligible to apply and may submit proposals. BExMed has once again announced research funding in the field of high altitude and expedition medicine for the year 2024, totaling €8,000 for young researchers. Applications may be submitted by members of BExMed
The UIAA MEDCOM has published a 7-part series on Women’s Health at High Altitude in the High Altitude and Medicine Journal (HAMB). The articles are available as open access for 1 year from the date of publication. The links are provided below. We hope you enjoy reading and gain valuable
26th issue of the professional journal for alpine accident analyses and alpine accident statistics – reporting period 2022-11-01 to 2023-10-31 – winter disciplines The Austrian Board for Alpine Safety (ÖKAS) publishes the alpine accident figures in Austria’s mountains and adjacent areas twice a year in its professional journal analyse:berg. Selected
We are delighted to announce that Mr. Mag. Reinhard Pühringer (alpine director of the Alpine Medicine courses) has received his doctorate – PhD – for his many years of research in alpine physiology at the University of Innsbruck. Congratulations from ÖGAHM and the alpine community!
Prof. Katharina Hüfner, Medical University of Innsbruck, and colleagues have published an exciting study on mental health after a mountain accident. A dream day in the mountains can quickly end in trauma—an accident, even if it turns out well, can sometimes affect those involved for a long time. Twenty percent
Nature Disease Primers has just published a compelling review article (and essential reading) titled “Altitude illnesses.” Our ÖGAHM board member Dr. Hannes Gatterer is the lead author of this outstanding work – a great honor for ÖGAHM as well. We offer our warmest congratulations! Abstract Millions of people visit high-altitude
Dr Claire Eglin, Principal Lecturer in Human and Applied Physiology, Extreme Environments Laboratory, University of Portsmouth, UK, has launched a website on non-freezing cold injuries. Your message and the link are provided here: I thought you might be interested in the new Non-freezing cold injury information website we have just
A Survey on Current Trends in the Freeride and Ski Touring Sector The evolution and changes in alpine winter sports are undeniable. An increasing number of winter sports enthusiasts seek tranquility and challenges away from secured ski slopes, far from well-trodden paths. In recent years, the popularity of alpine off-piste
Experts and members of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM) from around the world have contributed to this work. In addition to the history of alpine rescue, all areas of alpine emergencies and rescue are addressed. Specifically, all relevant emergencies specific to alpine emergency medicine are thoroughly
Dr. Abhyu Ghimire recorded this video during his Mt. Everest expedition in 2023. It is well worth watching, particularly the second medical section, in which Dr. Abhyu describes his feelings at the summit and provides a mountaineering and medical summary of his ascent. Impressive footage and insights. Enjoy watching!
analyse:berg is published twice a year by the Austrian Board for Alpine Safety (ÖKAS). In the summer and winter issues, the relevant alpine emergency events are analyzed and discussed. For physicians interested in alpine medicine, analyse:berg is an excellent professional supplement. Fresh off the press and ready for dispatch is
We regret to announce that Franz Berghold passed away on April 30. A central figure of the ÖGAHM has left us forever: co-founder of the ÖGAHM, honorary member, long-standing society secretary, past president, founder and head of alpine physician training for over 26 years, initiator of the textbook Alpine and
The International Commission for Alpine Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM) has published an update to the recommendations for the medical management of avalanche victims, first released in 1996, in the renowned journal RESUSCITATION (Brugger H et al. Resuscitation. 1996 Feb;31(1):11-6. doi: 10.1016/0300-9572(95)00913-2.). An 18-member expert team from North and South America,
The certificate course on anti-doping and doping prevention has been accredited by the Austrian Medical Academy with diploma continuing education points for the ÖÄK Diploma in Alpine and High Altitude Medicine. ÖGAHM is pleased to announce that the “Certificate Course on Anti-Doping and Doping Prevention”, organised at UMIT TIROL in
On Tuesday, January 17, 2023, the Salzburg regional branch of the Austrian Mountain Rescue Service invited Peter Paal to give a lecture on the rescue of avalanche victims. You can watch the lecture below. Enjoy, and remember: preventing emergencies is better than the best treatment.
The German Mountain Rescue Service invited Peter Paal to speak about hypothermia—accidental hypothermia—and the treatment of hypothermic patients during mountain rescue and subsequent hospital care. The report can be viewed via the link provided.
First Aid in the Mountains – The new edition of the mountain rescue first aid book serves as a guide for all those who venture into the mountains and may face its challenges.