The Vital Role of Oxygen in Health

This chapter examines the critical importance of oxygen in human biology, differentiating between hypoxemia and hypoxia while exploring various types of hypoxia. It highlights oxygen delivery's dependence on factors like cardiac output and hemoglobin levels, and discusses unique adaptations found in Arctic icefish. Additionally, the chapter addresses metabolic processes, aerobic vs. anaerobic respiration, and the importance of monitoring oxygen delivery and consumption in critical care settings.