Crowding May 'Have Nothing To Do With' Everest Deaths: Report

BOULDER, CO — Over the past several weeks, 11 climbers have died on Mount Everest, prompting some to question whether Nepalese officials and guides are doing all they can to prevent such deaths. Images of overcrowding and long lineups near Everest's peak have been circulating on social media, and The New York Times compared the climb to a "zoo."

Boulder attorney Chris Kulish, an experienced climber, died late last month shortly after reaching the peak of Mount Everest. Another American, Donald Cash, 55, died in late May during his descent.

The recent surge in Everest deaths may have nothing to do with overcrowding, however, according to a recent report by Popular Science. An emergency doctor who founded Everest ER said the problem may be simpler — the thin air can kill climbers in ways that are "surprisingly diverse."

Peter Hackett, a clinical professor in the University of Colorado School of Medicine’s Department of Pulmonary Sciences, said humans begin "slowly dying above 18,000 feet."

The Popular Science report looks into how the climb impacts the heart, the brain, the lungs and the body.

Read the full Popular Science report here.