Abstract:
In a previous report by Kramer et al. (Ann Int Med, 1994), it has been shown that descent to low altitude such as the Dead Sea area can improve arterial oxygenation (SaO₂), exercise performance, and sleep oxymetry in patients with advanced lung diseases including CF. To assess the effect of a winter camp for CF, we evaluated data of 73 German CF patients who participated in the CF winter camp at the Dead Sea area between 1996-1999. Their mean age was 16.9 (range: 2.5y-38y). Clinical evaluation included a physical examination, spirometry and pulse oxymetry, performed on arrival and before departure. During their stay patients were given chest physiotherapy by a professional physiotherapist, and were encouraged to walk and participate in a variety of in-door and out-door activities. It should be emphasized that the Dead Sea area is a very dry place with only three to five raining days a year and a mean maximal temperature of 23⁰C in the winter. Results: mean SaO₂ significantly improved (96.4%-97.1% p<0.0001), as well as FVC and FEV₁ (p<0.05). Non of the patients developed an acute exacerbation during the stay in the Dead Sea area and there was no need for IV interventions. In conclusion, these results indicate a significant objective benefit of a three weeks period in a winter camp at the Dead Sea region.

Purpose:

Methods:
We evaluated data of German CF patients who participated in a three weeks winter camp at the Dead Sea area between 1996-1999.

1. Clinical evaluation included a physical examination, spirometry and pulse oxymetry, performed on arrival and before departure.
2. During their stay patients were given chest physiotherapy by a professional physiotherapist, and were encouraged to walk and participate in a variety of in-door and out-door activities.

Results:
Research group included 73 German CF
Mean age was 16.9 (range: 2.5y-38y)
Male/Female ratio was 39:34
Mean SaO₂ significantly improved, as well as FVC and FEV₁.
Non of the patients developed an acute exacerbation during the stay in the Dead Sea area and there was no need for IV interventions.

Conclusion:
CF patients benefit while staying in the Dead Sea area, an ideal rehabilitation place during the winter. Our observation with 73 CF patients who spent 3-4 weeks in this area are encouraging, indicating the beneficial effects of the richer oxygen environment, in relation to arterial oxygen saturation and lung function.

Bibliography:

1. E. Paz
   The Salt Sea (Dead Sea) Book (In Hebrew); 1993.
   The Natural Reserves Authority and Regional Council
2. A. Drugon
   A medical Outlook on the Dead Sea Area and Its Natural Therapeutic Factor.
   Health Resort Authority; 1978.
3. M. Kramer, C. Springier, N. Beckman, E. Bar-Ice, A. Vital, A. Mandelberg, D. Efron, S. Godfrey.
   The Effect of Natural Oxygen Enrichment at Low Altitude on Oxygen Dependent Patients with End Stage Lung Disease.
   Annals of Internal Medicine 1994; 12 (9), 658-662
4. The Netherlands Journal of Medicine, june 1999, Page No:56

* Was presented as a Poster at the CF Conference at The Hague, Netherland, June 1999.