Effects of stimulated high altitude on the growth rate of albino guinea pigs

Abstract

Two different groups of pregnant albino guinea pigs were exposed continuously, during the second half of gestation, to simulated high altitudes of 12,000 ft in the first experiment and of 14,000–16,500 ft in the second. Pregnancy was significantly shorter in the second experiment than at sea level. Birth weights were lower than in controls in both experiments, more so in the second. Perinatal mortality was markedly increased, reaching 42% in the second experiment. All animals were kept at 12,000 ft after birth. Postnatal growth was slower than at sea level, except in females born at 12,000 ft, whose weights did not vary significantly from those of controls. hypoxia; perinatal mortality Submitted on November 10, 1964