Under Pressure: The Science of Oxygen and Longevity

Hyperbaric oxygen has been used in hospitals for decades, for conditions such as decompression illness and carbon monoxide poisoning. Since 2020, a small group of clinical studies has asked a newer question: can a course of sessions in a pressurised chamber change measurable markers of ageing?

Under Pressure is a clear, sourced guide to what that research actually measured. It explains the physics of breathing oxygen under pressure, the hyperoxic-hypoxic paradox behind the study protocols, and why the trials used about 60 sessions over three months. It sets out the reported changes in telomere length, senescent cells, skin collagen, processing speed, aerobic fitness and heart function, each with its study design, sample size and limitations given alongside.

The book also covers:

• where hyperbaric oxygen is an established part of medicine, and why those results are not evidence for longevity uses
• how hard-sided chambers built to recognised European standards differ from soft "mild" chambers
• five neutral questions to ask before choosing any chamber
• known side effects, contraindications and safety rules
• a glossary, plus 45 numbered references to the original papers

It is written for curious readers who want the evidence rather than the hype. This book is for general information only and is not medical advice.