Prevalence and Impact of Chronic Mountain Sickness on Quality of Life Among Urban Residents in Northwestern Sichuan, China: A Cross-Sectional Study

With rapid urbanization in high-altitude regions, the health impacts of chronic hypoxia on plateau urban residents remain understudied. This study aims to determine the prevalence of chronic mountain sickness (CMS) and its associated factors among urban residents of the Northwestern Sichuan Plateau and further assess the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in this population. A cross-sectional survey study was conducted in urban residents of the Northwestern Sichuan Plateau aged ≥20 years residing at an altitude of 3500 to 4000 meters. Demographics, physiological parameters, hematological parameters, specified symptoms of CMS were recorded. CMS was diagnosed using the Qinghai CMS score criteria. Propensity score matching (1:3) was performed to adjust for age differences between the CMS group and the group without CMS. A segmented linear regression model was employed to identify the hemoglobin threshold associated with CMS. Multivariable conditional logistic regression was used to evaluate independent associated factors for CMS after age matching. 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) was employed to assess the HRQoL in this population. Prevalence of CMS was 20.5% (95% CI: 16.2%-24.8%). Female and hemoglobin (Hb) levels ≥ 186g/L were independent associated factors for CMS after controlling for age with odds ratio (OR) as 3.02 (95% CI: 1.19–7.64) and OR 4.76 (95% CI: 1.41–16.06), respectively. The SF-12 assessment demonstrated significantly impaired physical and mental health status in CMS patients, with a more pronounced deterioration in physical health components. This study enhances understanding of CMS burden and associated factors in plateau urban populations, supporting sustainable development in these areas.