What condition does hypoxia refer to?

Hypoxia specifically refers to a state in which there is a deficiency of oxygen in the blood. This condition can occur when there are insufficient levels of oxygen available to meet the needs of the body's tissues, which can lead to various physiological effects, including impaired function of organs and, in severe cases, can be life-threatening.

This is particularly relevant in aviation and high-altitude situations, where the decreased atmospheric pressure results in lower availability of oxygen, thereby increasing the risk of hypoxia. Understanding hypoxia is essential for aircrew members, as they must recognize the symptoms and take appropriate action to ensure they maintain adequate oxygen levels during flight.