THE EFFECT OF SPORT DIVING ON STEM CELLS CD34+ AND COMPLETE BLOOD PICTURE

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of sport diving on stem cells CD34+ and complete blood picture. Materials and Methods: 10 male sport divers aged (23-34 yrs) with a history of diving of (5-1o years) were recruited for this study. They were instructed to dive for 45 min. Blood sample was drawn before and after diving in Hurghada Area, complete blood picture was estimated using coulter counter and CD34+ was determined by flow cytometry. Results showed an increased CD34+ after diving compared to rest state. Also, complete blood picture increased as well. Conclusion: The increased CD34+ counts might indicate that diving is involved in the wellbeing and health of divers. The elevated blood picture reported an improvement in fitness and immunity and deserve further study in diving based rehabilitation programs