Acute Mountain Sickness Impact Among Travelers to Cusco, Peru

Nearly half of travelers to Cusco, Peru (3,400 m), experience acute mountain sickness (AMS), with 17% suffering severe symptoms that disrupt their travel plans. A cross-sectional study of 991 tourists found that acetazolamide significantly reduced AMS risk, yet it was rarely prescribed or used, while coca leaf products—commonly employed for prevention—increased AMS frequency. Most travelers flew directly from sea level and had suboptimal pre-travel preparation, with only a quarter receiving medical advice. Older adults, those with recent high-altitude exposure, or those visiting lower-altitude cities were less likely to develop AMS. These findings highlight the need for better pre-travel education and targeted preventive strategies.

Salazar, H., Swanson, J., Mozo, K., Clinton White, A., & Cabada, M. M. (2012). Acute Mountain Sickness Impact Among Travelers to Cusco, Peru. Journal of Travel Medicine, 19(4), 220–225. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1708-8305.2012.00606.x