Hyperbaric Oxygen Could Improve Cognitive Ability

An innovative form of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may be able to improve cognitive ability in aging adults. Researchers at the Shamir Medical Center, and Tel Aviv University found for the first time in a peer-reviewed study, that HBOT improvements in cerebral blood flow could boost the cognitive performance of healthy adults.

Longevity.Technology: As the population ages, cognitive decline within otherwise healthy adults is becoming a growing problem. As solutions such as HBOT prove their effectiveness in increasing oxygen saturation, demand is likely to grow.

The main areas of improvement came in the speed with which information was processed, executive function and cognitive function, all of which decline with age. There was also a correlation between positive cognitive gains and cerebral blood flow in specific regions.

The study was designed by Professor Shai Efrati and Dr Amir Hadanny on the HBOT protocol developed over the past decade at Sagol Center. It involved a randomised controlled clinical trial of 63 healthy adults over the age of 64 who were either in a control group or received HBOT treatment.

“In our study, for the first time in humans, we have found an effective and safe medical intervention that can address this unwanted consequence of our age-related deterioration.”

There is a growing interest in the value of HBOT treatments. During the process, a patient breathes normal air which increases the oxygen solubility and stimulates the release of stem cells and other factors which can promote healing. It is being used in a growing number of environments around the world to treat issues such as non-healing wounds.

However, as this study shows, there is also increasing interest in the regenerative potential of HBOT. Delivering high levels of oxygenation at high pressure increases oxygen levels within tissue while targeting genes which are sensitive to both oxygen and pressure. The result is an improved metabolism in which the target genes proliferate stem cells, reduce inflammation, generate new blood vessels and repair mechanisms.

“Age-related cognitive and functional decline has become a significant concern in the Western world. Major research efforts around the world are focused on improving the cognitive performance of the so-called ‘normal’ aging population,” said Professor Efrati. “In our study, for the first time in humans, we have found an effective and safe medical intervention that can address this unwanted consequence of our age-related deterioration.” [1]

The market for HBOT is growing rapidly. According to Transparent Market Research, the market is expected to grow at 7.4% year on year and reach a valuation of $284.8 million. More affordable prices, technological advancements and improved performance, as well as the search for solutions which can arrest cognitive decline, are just some of the reasons behind the rise [2].

As technology improves, it is possible to purchase at home devices for $5,000 or less if you have room, making it increasingly attractive for older people looking for ways to reduce age related cognitive decline and other issues.