John B. West, Respiratory Physiology Apr 2026

Despite his high-altitude heroics, West is perhaps most beloved for his ability to simplify complex concepts. Respiration at the Limit

: They recorded the first-ever physiological measurements on the summit. They found that climbers' bodies hyperventilate so drastically that the carbon dioxide in their lungs drops to nearly impossible levels (around 7.5 mmHg), which is what actually allows oxygen to reach the blood. John B. West, Respiratory physiology

: This led to his famous "West Zones," which explain how gravity creates different regions of ventilation and perfusion within the upright lung. 2. The 1981 Everest Expedition: Life at the Limit Despite his high-altitude heroics, West is perhaps most

: He proved for the first time that blood flow is strikingly unequal due to gravity. : This led to his famous "West Zones,"

West’s most legendary feat was leading the . He wanted to answer a fundamental question: How is it possible for humans to survive where oxygen levels are at the absolute limit of tolerance? .