How do we cope with reduced oxygenation (hypoxia)? While hypoxic conditions occurring at high altitude lead to acclimatization processes, more severe conditions require intense responses to minimize tissue damage. Once again, our Monte Verità meeting will emphasize the importance of linking molecular aspects of hypoxia to relevant physiological and pathological aspects of human medicine. Distinguished speakers will give us an overview of the current knowledge in the field and highlight new discoveries. Moreover, in two consensus sessions an expert panel will present and discuss aspects on high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and doping in elite climbers. Special emphasis is also given to the emerging role of hypoxia in inflammatory and degenerative disorders.